asking questions

• Write down your questions. It is completely normal to feel nervous during a treatment consultation. A list of questions can serve as a memory aid for what you want to discuss with the doctor. It is also useful to write down the answers so that you can refer to them later.
  
• Highlight questions that are very important. If you are only seeing the doctor for a short consultation, then you must pose the most important questions first.
  
• Keep a notebook close at hand. Keep it in the car, next to your bed, on your desk or wherever it is easily accessible. It will be useful when a question occurs to you.

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questions regarding lab tests and procedures

If a laboratory test or procedure is scheduled, you must ask the following questions:

• What is the purpose of the test/procedure?
• How and where will it take place?
• Will it be painful? If so, is there something that can be taken prior to or after the test to reduce the pain?
• How long will it take to find out the results? What do the results mean?
• Will the doctor’s office telephone us with the results?
• How much does it cost?

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questions regarding medication

Answers to these questions help couples understand what medicines they will take:

• What are the names of the drugs involved and what are they intended for?
• How much must be taken, when and how?
• What side effects should I expect from this drug?
• Are there any restrictions (e.g. exercise, activities, food or alcohol) when taking it?
• Can the doctor provide written instructions about the administration, handling and storage of this drug?
• How much will the medications cost?

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