Improving Communication with Your Doctor: Tips for Being Heard

Have you ever felt like your doctor wasn’t really listening to you during an appointment? Maybe you had a concern that you wanted to discuss, but your doctor brushed it off or didn’t seem to take it seriously. Or perhaps you felt like your doctor was rushing through your appointment and didn’t give you enough time to ask questions or talk through your concerns. These kinds of experiences can be frustrating and even scary, especially when it comes to your health. But the good news is that there are steps you can take to help your doctor listen to you and work with you collaboratively to address your healthcare needs.

Enhance your doctor consultations with these proven strategies for optimal communication.

1. Establish a connection:

Start the conversation with a friendly greeting or a light-hearted joke. Recognize that doctors are people too, and initiating a conversation by asking about their day can make them more receptive to your concerns.

2. Get to the point:

Since doctor visits typically last around 13 to 16 minutes, it’s crucial to stay focused. Avoid sharing excessive unrelated information that might divert attention from your medical concerns.

3. Be honest and thorough:

Your doctor needs complete and honest information to properly address your complaints. Don’t hesitate to discuss sensitive topics such as substance abuse, sexual dysfunction, or changes in sleep patterns.

4. Prepare beforehand:

If discussing embarrassing topics makes you uncomfortable, rehearse what you want to say in front of a mirror. Use explicit terms, like “incontinent,” “bowel movements,” or “diarrhea,” to ensure you can discuss them comfortably during your appointment.

5. Challenge assumptions:

If you experience sudden symptoms, trouble sleeping, or any issue that significantly impacts your daily life, be specific about the changes you’ve observed. Don’t settle for a dismissive response about aging; instead, inquire about tests or examinations that can rule out more serious underlying conditions.

6. Address concerns early:

Rather than waiting until the end of the appointment, prepare a list of questions and concerns to discuss early on. By doing so, you ensure that your doctor has ample time to address them before concluding the visit.

Remember, effective communication with your doctor is crucial for receiving proper care. By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your office visit and ensure that your doctor truly listens to you.

Written by: Ciara Simpson

About the Author: Ciara Simpson is a vibrant and devoted public health advocate, creating meaningful change within her local healthcare community. With an inspiring passion for life, Ciara is also a dedicated freelance writer, wife, mother of two, and trailblazing leader who finds joy in helping others. When not contributing to her community, she loves exploring the Pacific Northwest’s stunning vistas by biking, hiking, skiing, or sailing with her loving husband and family. Ciara approaches every day with enthusiasm and purpose — an energizing presence in each of her endeavors.

Related Resources

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Source: Smart Strategies for Successful Living