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Regular doctor appointments are a necessary and critical part of managing MS. Often, however, people feel rushed during the visit and leave with questions unanswered. This issue’s Q&A offers suggestions that can help you get the most out of your doctor appointments.
Q. My office visits are so quick. How can I get the time I need to really talk with my doctor?
A. Office visits can last for as little as 15 minutes. In that time, not only will you have to explain why you’ve come to your doctor’s office, but your doctor will have to absorb what you’ve said, consider the new information within the context of your medical history, and decide how best to move forward.
To maximize every office visit, be prepared and be specific. Write down your questions in advance so you don’t get flustered or forget an important point. Stay away from vague terms such as “I’m not feeling well,” and give specific details on the issue at hand. Most important, at the end of the visit, make sure you fully understand what you’re supposed to do next. Actively taking charge will help you get the most out of every office visit.
Q. Is there a way to make asking embarrassing questions easier?
A. Most people are embarrassed to discuss anything related to urinary, bowel, or sexual function with their doctors. But because you can’t pretend that these types of problems don’t exist, focusing on a few key points may help you feel more comfortable during office visits.
Feel free to describe your problem using whatever words you know. There’s no need to use medical jargon or formal language—just a need to be clear so your doctor will understand what you’re saying. Also, remember that although it might seem as if you’re the only one with these problems, your doctor has likely heard it all before.
Finally, don’t forget that the more confident you are in your communications with your doctor, the easier it will be for you to work together and find the right treatment approach.
Q. My doctor doesn’t seem to be listening to me, and I am frustrated! What can I do?
A. Establishing rapport with your doctor is critical to ensuring your medical problems are being managed appropriately. It’s important for the doctor to listen to you carefully before making any care decisions, but it’s equally important that you continue to ask questions to ensure that the proper course of action is taken.
If you feel like you need some more time to talk with your doctor before making any treatment decisions, ask about scheduling a follow-up appointment. The additional time can give you both an opportunity to consider the best course of action. And if you’re still not satisfied, consider finding another doctor. Only you can decide whether you can partner with your doctor on finding the right treatment approach.
Q. Is there anyone else I can talk to in addition to my doctor?
A. Some doctors have a team of nurses, nurse practitioners, and/or physician assistants who are very well versed in the management of disease. They can be helpful in not only explaining new tests and treatment regimens, but also in bridging any communication gaps between you and your doctor, especially for sensitive and uncomfortable topics.
Ask your doctor or the office staff about contacting the nurse directly if you have any follow-up or non-urgent questions. And be confident that if they can’t answer your questions, they’ll work with you to make sure you get the right answer from your doctor.
You may, however, be treated by a doctor without a staff to assist him/her. If you cannot talk to your current doctor or are unable to find a doctor with a staff, other resources are available. Visit the Web links here for a list.
