When you go to the doctor, you only discuss the pathology that led you to consult. Sometimes, it is the doctors themselves who limit the consultation to a single reason, due to lack of time. However, some questions are worth asking when you visit your doctor.
Here are the ones, according to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of True Medical.
Actively participating in the consultation is recommended
Dialogue is therefore essential, between a health professional and his patient. It allows the latter to keep informed of possible health problems that he or she may encounter.
This exchange is also useful for avoiding risky behaviors and better understanding certain prevention priorities, essential for maintaining good health for as long as possible.
“The medical consultation is a dialogue” confirms Dr Gérald Kierzek. “Do not hesitate to ask questions or even prepare it by writing them in advance” he advises.
Ask your questions, taking into account the time of the consultation
However, he recalls the planning imperative that weighs on doctors. “Also take into account the fact that doctors have a limited schedule and limited consultation time.”. Your questions can therefore be prioritized. Ask the most urgent ones this time and save your writing for next time.
And finally, don’t be offended if your doctor speaks before you’re finished. “When someone interrupts you, it is to bounce back or redirect you towards information useful to your health, it is not that they are cutting you off.” reassures the emergency doctor.
What questions should you ask regularly?
According to Gérald Kierzek, five questions should in all cases be asked regularly to your doctor. Here are the ones.
- What exactly is my diagnosis?
“Ask for details about your state of health, the seriousness of your pathology and its possible evolution. advises Dr Gérald Kierzek; - What treatment options are available? “Find out about the different therapeutic options, their advantages and disadvantages. Including non-pharmacological interventions” underlines the expert;
- What are the benefits and risks of the recommended treatment? “Ask the doctor about the expected effectiveness and potential side effects of the proposed treatment” ;
- What will happen if I do nothing?
“Understand the consequences of not taking treatment on your health” insists the emergency doctor; - What can I do myself to improve my health? “Ask for advice on lifestyle changes or actions you can take personally” finally adds the medical director of True Medical.
Before concluding: “Please feel free to take notes and ask for clarification if necessary.”