RVNA Health Source: How to Talk with your Doctor

According to recent research, patients get an average of 18 minutes with their doctor during a regular visit. That isn’t a lot of time so it’s important to make every minute count.

The doctor-patient relationship has changed in recent years, and patients are more active participants in making their healthcare decisions. This is especially true for seniors who have more chronic conditions and complex situations. There are some suggestions for making the most of your 18 minutes.

Be prepared with questions written out and don’t rely on your memory. Take a family member or friend along if you get nervous at the doctor’s office; a companion can strengthen the communication by providing additional information to the doctor and be another pair of ears for the patient. Another tip if you take prescribed medication is to review exactly what it’s for, what it will accomplish and if there are alternatives which might be better choices for you.

For a medication or treatment being newly considered, ask what the downside is if you do not feel ready to proceed with your doctor’s recommendation. It’s also important to discuss any regular health practices you should follow including vaccinations, screenings and exercise and to understand the guidelines offered by your physician. Complete or update your advanced directives so that your physician will only provide the treatments you wish once that time comes. A good healthcare professional should be communicative and someone you are comfortable discussing any medical issue with, no matter how sensitive. They should welcome your questions and be thankful for an active patient.

Founded in 1914, RVNA is an accredited non-profit Medicare-certified home healthcare agency that also supports public health and safety, and promotes the highest quality of life. RVNA provides compassionate care to all individuals, whether young or old, through a continuum of care that encompasses health care at home and in the community. RVNA also provides home health aides and companionship through a non-medical subsidiary called HomeCare by RVNA and outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy in its Rehab by RVNA facility at 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield.

Visit RVNA at www.ridgefieldvna.org

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Submitted by Wilton, CT

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