When you are sick, taking an active role in your health care will get you the best services. You can start by improving your personal relationship with your doctor. Furthermore, you should let your doctor know about your current and past health care. Especially, if you are allergic to some medications, your doctor should know about it. If you have any medicines you are currently taking, you should bring them with you. Don’t forget to bring vitamins, x-rays, medical records, test results with you to the appointment.

Sometimes your doctor may ask embarrassing questions. It is important that you tell your doctor the truth, even if you are embarrassed. Lying to your doctor can lead to serious potential health risks.

If you don’t understand something, you should ask. Some people are afraid to speak up. You doctor will assume that you understand everything, if you do not ask questions. You should write down the questions in a piece of paper, if you have questions before the appointment. If you need more time to talk to your doctor, you need to let them know. If your doctor is busy, a nurse or a physician assistant may be able to help you. If everyone is busy, you should schedule another appointment to answer your questions.

If you can not remember all instructions from your doctor, you should write down your instructions. Some people use a tape recorder. Your doctor may even have brochures or other education materials for you. Ask you doctor for his/her contact’s information.