HOW TO BE A SMARTER PATIENT

Doctors are trained to read charts, x-rays and symptoms, not minds. So it is up to you to give them all the information they need to treat you properly. The following list of tips tell you how to get smarter and safer health care. It all starts with the simple act of opening your mouth.

Speak up if you have questions or concerns. Choose a doctor who you feel comfortable talking to about your health and treatment. It is okay to ask questions and expect answers you can understand.

Keep a list of all the medicines you take and share that information with your doctor. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about the medicines you take, including over-the-counter medicines. Tell them about any drug allergies you have. Ask the pharmacist about side effects and be sure to read the labels on your medicines.

Make sure you get the results of any test or procedure. No news is good news is not always the case.

Talk with your doctor and health care team about your options if you need hospital care. If you have more than one hospital to choose from, choose a hospital at which many patients have had the procedure or surgery you require.

Make sure you understand exactly what will happen if you need surgery. Ask your doctor and surgeon exactly what they will be doing, how long it will take, what will happen after surgery and how you can expect to feel during recovery.

The more you know about your health, the healthier you will be. Keep this information and share it with your family and your doctor.

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