Part 2 in a series on choosing or changing your doctor and making the most of your office visits.
How much information can you get in 15 minutes or less? On average, that's the amount of face-to-face time most of us have with our doctors. If you're like most patients, the time spent with your oncologist, gynecologist, surgeon or other healthcare professional is often all too brief. Preparing beforehand ensures that your most important issues will be addressed, and that you'll get the information you need to make decisions about your care.
Before your visit
> Be proactive. There are several things you can do to maximize time with your doctor. First, request a double appointment—30 to 40 minutes—when scheduling your visit. This can be very helpful when a particularly significant diagnosis or complex treatment will be discussed. It isn't always possible, but it doesn't hurt to ask. Ask what records or other information you should bring. For an initial consultation, this might include a list of all prescribed and over-the-counter medications and supplements you take or the results of your most recent X-ray, blood test or MRI. If you've scheduled a diagnostic visit, bring a written list of your symptoms. If you're seeing a genetic specialist, she will want to view your family's medical history.
> Be prepared. Your physician won't be able to explain all the nuances of your breast cancer or other medical issues during a single brief appointment. An informed patient is an empowered patient, so learn as much as you can about your condition or recommendations for care beforehand. Search the library for current information or visit reliable and objective Internet sites, such as those maintained by the American Cancer Society, WebMD, the National Institutes for Health, or other non-profit organizations devoted to your condition.
> Prioritize your issues. You probably won't have time to ask all your questions, so plan ahead to make sure you have time to ask the right ones. After researching on your own, prioritize a few issues for which you most need your doctor's input: discussing treatment alternatives, for example, or determining why a recommended chemotherapy regimen is most appropriate or effective. Write these down and take the list with you.
> Bring someone with you. Studies show the average patient forgets half of what she hears when she sees her physician. That's not surprising: a simple trip to the doctor is often enough to make your blood pressure soar. That's why four ears are better than two. Bring a friend or relative along to write down the key points of your discussion. Or tape record the session (be sure to first ask for permission). Once you get home, you can review the conversation at your leisure.
During the visit
> Participate. Even though many of us view physicians as authority figures who will tell us what to do, you and your doctor are a team, with a mutual purpose to make the best possible decisions concerning your healthcare. An interactive session that includes your participation will be most beneficial. Try repeating what you think you heard, to make sure your understanding is correct. Ask what books, DVDs or other educational information he recommends to increase your knowledge and understanding. Ask to speak with one or two patients who have had the same procedure you're considering. Summarize conclusions and next steps before you leave.
> Speak up. Don't be shy if you need something explained or repeated. Ask your physician to draw a diagram or use plain language to define a term or clarify a procedure. If you must choose between lumpectomy and radiation or mastectomy, ask him to explain the risk of recurrence and side effects associated with each alternative. Don't wait until the end of the appointment to ask your prioritized questions. Say that you have three of four important issues. Start with the most important one, then progress to the others.
> Be honest and direct. Express your fears or confusion and say what's on your mind. Tell your doctor how you really feel or what you really want to know, rather than what you think he wants to hear from you. Ideally, you want to leave with a sense of clarity about your diagnosis, treatment options, and the prescribed path forward.
After you leave
> Let it all sink in. In most cases, you have time to consider what you've learned. Never feel pressured to make a decision while in the office. Once you return home, follow up to research any new terms and explore the potential of each care alternative. Finally, consider another perspective by pursuing a second opinion, or discussing the benefits and limitations of your options with someone you trust.