A Healthy You Takes Two

Your relationship with your doctor, and how well you communicate with each other, can affect your care.

You and your doctor work together as a team to address medical problems and keep you healthy. Research shows that patients who have a strong relationship with their doctors and other health care professionals tend to be healthier and more satisfied with their health care.

Whether your next appointment is online or in-person, here are some tips to help you build your relationship with your doctor:

Before your appointment

• Collect important medical information, such as test results and a list of medicines you’re taking: prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements.
• Write down any questions about changes in your routine (for example, diet, exercise or activity, sleeping patterns, etc.) that concern you.
• If you think you may not understand or remember what your doctor tells you, ask a family member or friend to join you.

During your appointment

• Discuss any symptoms you may have and go over your list of questions or concerns.
• Make sure you understand what your doctor is telling you. Ask questions about anything you don’t understand.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if your doctor asks you to.

After your appointment

• Follow up to get test results.
• Update your medical history with any new medications or changes in dosage.
• Monitor symptoms that occur after any changes in treatment or medications.