When you go to the doctor, you often think only of the main reason for the visit. However, as Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of True Medical, reminds us, some questions should be asked regularly. They make it possible to better understand your state of health, to anticipate the risks and to become an actor of its prevention.
Why dialogue with his doctor is essential
The emergency doctor insists on the importance of a constant exchange between the patient and his practitioner. “Medical consultation is a dialogue“, He said. For him, a successful consultation goes through an active participation of the patient.”Do not hesitate to ask questions or even prepare it by writing them in advance“, He advises. This attitude allows you not to miss out on information important for your health.
However, Gérald Kierzek invites us to respect the pace imposed by the limited time of consultations: “Also take into account the fact that doctors have a limited schedule and limited consultation time“. He recommends prioritizing the questions and keeping some for a next visit. And if the doctor cuts off, you should not formalize:”When you are interrupted, it is to rebound or redirect you to information useful to your health, it is not that you are cut off“.
The 5 key questions according to Dr. Kierzek
According to the emergency room, five questions should be systematically addressed during a consultation:
- What exactly is my diagnosis? “”Ask for details on your state of health, the severity of your pathology and its possible evolution“;
- What are the available processing options? “”Find out about the different therapeutic possibilities, their advantages and disadvantages. Including non -drug interventions“;
- What are the benefits and risks of the recommended treatment? “”Ask the doctor about the expected efficiency and the potential side effects of the proposed treatment“;
- What will happen if I do nothing? “”Understand the consequences of the lack of treatment on your health“;
- What can I do myself to improve my health? “”Ask for advice on lifestyle changes or actions that you can take personally“.
These questions cover both diagnosis and treatment or prevention. They allow the patient to situate himself and act concretely for his daily health.
Practical advice for each consultation
To make the most of the medical interview, Dr. Kierzek recommends writing his questions before the appointment and not to hesitate to note the answers. “”Do not hesitate to take notes and ask for clarifications if necessary“, He adds. This habit avoids omissions and helps to better follow its treatment or prevention recommendations.
These few simple questions can transform a classic consultation in a key moment to preserve your health and strengthen partnership with your doctor.