Questions you may want to ask your healthcare professional
Often, the time you spend with your healthcare professional is limited. Think about the questions you would like to ask them before your appointment and write them down. Take these with you to your appointment.
It is important that you can leave your appointment feeling satisfied that you were able to ask and have answered all of the questions appropriate to that healthcare professional. Knowing what you want to find out before you go in can help achieve this.
Questions you may want to ask include:
- What lifestyle changes can I make to help me cope with my symptoms?
- Why have you chosen this particular treatment for my condition?
- Can I use other medicines while I am taking this treatment?
- How long will it typically take to see results?
- How can my progress on this treatment be monitored?
- Will I need any tests while I’m on this treatment?
- What will happen if I stop using this treatment?
- What are the potential side effects of any treatment you are prescribing?
- What other treatments are available?
- Can I take this medication if I am trying to get pregnant or father a child?
- Who can I speak to if I have any questions after this visit?
- Are there any activities or situations I should avoid?
- Are there any local support organisations?