Close cooperation with your doctor is important in receiving care for illness or injury and in preventing them from occurring. Optimize your health care partnership with your doctor by building a rapport that is friendly, respectful, and trusting.

Here are some guidelines for getting the most from visits with your doctor:
* Prepare for appointments: When making an appointment, tell the receptionist what your problem is so enough time can be scheduled. Write down your symptoms, concerns, and questions before seeing the doctor. Be able to report what drugs, vitamins, and nutritional supplements that you are taking. Be on time to your appointment.
* Do not be shy. Be detailed and specific when describing your problems. Answer the doctor's questions as best you can. Ask questions. Keep your remarks to the point. Share your needs and concerns. Your doctor is trained to serve as a resource for any of your questions or health concerns.
* Take part in your health care. Get a full explanation of your treatments, the risks involved, expected outcomes, and alternatives. Ask the doctor to explain them again, if you do not understand. Make an informed decision about your treatment. Educate yourself. Ask for reading material.
* Seek consultations as needed. You should have reasonable access to your doctor. Consult with your doctor as your condition dictates and as the doctor's schedule permits.

Confidence and trust between you and your doctor are essential. Look for another doctor if you are having a hard time communicating, or do not feel comfortable. Do not worry about protecting your doctor's feelings. Doctors and patients may have different styles, which are not compatible. Be straightforward and let your doctor know if you are planning on transferring your care to another doctor. This way, all of your records can be transferred to your new provider.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go