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Speak Up Column

Sound Health: Don’t be Shy. Speak Up for Safe and Effective Health Care.

   By Lori Whittaker, MD

Have you have ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling as though you didn’t get your questions answered? Or you didn’t understand what you’re supposed to do next? Or why? You’re not alone.

Many people have a hard enough time understanding medical language.  It’s even harder for those who speak a language other than English. Doctors and nurses around the state have been working on better communication with people from all walks of life. That’s why you may have been asked to state your race, ethnicity or primary language. Health care teams in hospitals and clinics who ask this are tracking this information to make sure that they provide every patient with high quality health care.

Your role in this is important, because you are in the driver’s seat. When talking to a doctor or nurse, remember that even though they are the medical experts, only you are the expert on how you feel. Don’t be too shy to ask questions or correct a nurse or doctor who didn’t understand what you said. Patients who don’t speak English well should ask for a translator. The more information you can share with your doctor, the more he or she can help you.

Here are some quick tips to improve communication with your doctor or nurse:

• Write a list, and bring a pen. Before your doctor’s appointment, write down your symptoms or questions, and list them in order of importance. Your doctor may only have time to handle two or three on the list, so focus on what is most important. Bring two copies of your list. Give one to your doctor and use the other to write down what your doctor tells you.

• Bring information. Don’t assume that your doctor will have all your medical information on hand. Depending on the reason for your visit, you may want to also bring the results of recent tests, and an up-to-date list of your medicines (make sure to include all prescription drugs, vitamins, over-the-counter medicine and supplements you are taking).

• Bring another set of ears. Sometimes it’s hard to remember everything a doctor said if you’re the only one listening. Bring a trusted friend or family member to listen, ask questions, and take notes for you if needed.

• If you don’t understand, ask again. If you ask a question and the answer is unclear to you, ask the doctor to explain it again in another way. It’s important that you get your questions answered and understand the next steps you are supposed to take.

• Ask for an interpreter if you need one. Before your visit you can ask for an interpreter to be there in person or on the phone.

Good communication is a two-way street. It’s your body. It’s your life. And it’s up to you to speak up for yourself and make sure you get the treatment and the information you need. One good place to look for information is www.WACommunityCheckup.org.  Go to “Resources” and select “Talking to Your Doctor” for lots of helpful advice.

Dr. Lori Whittaker is a practicing family physician who provides consultation to the Puget Sound Health Alliance.

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