We all know that developing healthy relationships have the power to make our lives warmer, easier and more rewarding. Be it our friends, family, co-workers, professional networks or even the very nice waitress at your favorite restaurant who you request every time, our relationships are special to us in all kinds of ways.
Your relationship with your doctor should be no different! As a patient seeking care for your health, you’re automatically in a position that requires you to be open and vulnerable. This relationship is important because your health, treatment options, levels of comfort and communication depend on it.
Improve Your Doctor/Patient Relationship with these Simple Tips
The doctor/patient relationship is very valuable, so it’s important that you take this relationship seriously. Here are a few simple tips that can go a long way for cultivating that rewarding relationship!
- Prepare for Your Appointment – Have everything you may need ready to go before you see your doctor. This includes your specific health complaints and concerns, list of medications, medical history and anything else you deem important. Also, leave in advance so you’re sure to get there on time. For additional ways to prepare for your appointment, CLICK HERE.
- Voice Your Concerns – Don’t just tell your doctor about your health as it is. Be open, speak up and allow yourself to tell them about your biggest concerns – both now and for the future. They may be able to ease a lot of your anxiety and provide practical advice.
- Take Notes – Bring a pencil and some paper or use your phone to take notes during your visit. A big part of this is to also ask questions. Not sure about something? Speak up! You won’t know if you don’t ask.
- Ask How to Reach Them Out of the Office – You may have a question that needs an answer quicker than the next business day. Do they have a personal email or phone number they can provide? An online chat group? A separate location where they practice?
- Be Honest – If you are asked a question that makes you uncomfortable, remember that your doctor is only here to help you improve your health. Honest answers make their job easier, and they give you better results!
- Communicate if You Find another Doctor – If you end up seeking out another physician for whatever reason, let your doctor know. This is a point of courtesy and it also makes appointment follow-up a lot easier.
- Follow Your Plan of Care – If you have a healthy relationship with your doctor, you can trust that they know best. Follow your care plan to the best of your ability. This means taking your medication as advised, eating the appropriate foods, devoting the time to exercise, and whatever else your doctor may tell you.
Going to visit your doctor should be a positive experience — don’t let the small things get in the way of developing a rewarding relationship that will ultimately help you find a healthier you!
