How to Advocate For Yourself When Talking to Your Doctor | Maryland
Going to the doctor can sometimes make people nervous. You may have anxious thoughts about your health which can make it hard for you to speak up for yourself. There are also societal beliefs that the doctor is the expert and that we as patients shouldn’t question them.
However, when you are talking to your doctor, it is important that you advocate for yourself. Bringing up alternative ideas can help your doctor come up with ideas they normally wouldn’t have thought about.
List Out Your Questions Ahead of Time
Make a list of your questions or concerns. Before your appointment, take a few minutes to write down questions as you think of them. Even if it feels like a long list, it can help your appointment be more organized and make you feel more in control of your appointment. Asking questions can also help your doctor understand exactly what you are concerned about. Their answers can help ease your mind.
Be Specific and Include Lots of Details
Sharing a lot of information with your doctor can help them get to the bottom of your problem. If you see your doctor for headaches, for example, share details such as how often you are having headaches, when they started, where in your head you are experiencing pain, how painful they are and what you think might be triggering them
Explain Your Concerns When You Schedule Your Appointment
It’s important to tell the receptionist if you have specific concerns so they can book the appointment appropriately and allow time for your provider to answer all your questions. If you tell the scheduler that you are wanting a wellness exam, you may not have enough time to discuss the other concerns you have.
Recognize That You May Disagree With Your Doctor
We must understand that it is ok to disagree with your doctor. But disagreeing may make you feel defensive or confrontational, and you might be tempted to accuse your provider of not treating you correctly. Asking questions can help you see what other options there may be if you don’t agree with your doctor’s recommendations and that help makes sense for both of you.
Build a Good Rapport With Your Doctor
It is always easier to advocate for yourself with someone you trust. To develop and maintain a solid relationship with your provider, see them at least once a year for a wellness exam. Your annual exam is a chance for your doctor to see you regularly and help build that rapport. That way if something happens in the future, your doctor will already have a record of your health history.
Know When It’s Time to Find a New Doctor
Not every provider and patient make a good match. If you constantly feel like you are rushed, your provider isn’t listening, you can’t ask questions or you don’t have time to get through your list of questions, you may want to find a new provider.
Best Primary Care Doctor in Maryland
At Bowie Internal Medicine, our primary care physicians offer complete medical care for the whole family. If you need to see a doctor, contact us today.