1-833-855-9973

Questions For Your Doctor

There’s no better place than your doctor’s office to take control of your health. You already took time out of your day to go to your doctor’s appointment, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and get the information you need before you leave.

Christina Smarik Snyder, MD

in General Health Primary Care Services

May 25, 2019

Whenever you go to the doctor, get the most out of your appointment by asking questions. Don’t be afraid to speak up and get all the information you need before you leave.
Common topics you may want to ask about include information about your medical tests, diagnoses, medications and your next appointment.
Gather brochures, audio recordings and notes and talk to other members of your care team, if needed. If you come up with more questions after the fact, don’t hesitate to call.

Not sure where to start? Here’s some general questions from the U.S Department of Health & Human Services that may help you at your next doctor’s appointment:

Questions about Medical Tests

Why is the test being done?
What steps does the test involve? How should I get ready?
Are there any dangers or side effects?
How will I find out the results? How long will it take to get the results?
What will we know after the test?

Questions to Ask About Your Diagnosis

What may have caused this condition? Will it be permanent?
How is this condition treated or managed? What will be the long-term effects on my life?
How can I learn more about my condition?

Questions about your Medications

What’s the name of the drug?
Why is this being prescribed to me?
How often and how long do I need to take the medication?

Tips for your next appointment

Take notes during the appointment or ask the doctor for their permission to record audio of what is said.
Ask your doctor for any brochures or handouts about your condition and treatment.
Talk to other members of your care team about your condition, including nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists, and occupational or physical therapists.
If you come up with more questions after you leave your appointment, feel free to call the doctor’s office. A nurse or staff member can check with the doctor and call you back.

Your management team has somehow managed to develop a culture throughout the Arizona Burn Center that is something I wanted to compliment you for ... It is one that treats the patient as a special person. Whether it was the nursing staff, the physical therapists or the physicians, they all shared the same understanding – the importance of the patient and how to deliver the best possible overall care.

—

Looking for a doctor? Valleywise Health is proud to partner with District Medical Group (DMG) to offer you access to outstanding and compassionate physicians, from primary to specialty care and almost everything in between. Make an appointment today at 1 (833) VLLYWSE.

Quick Tip Now

Getting ready for a virtual doctor’s appointment? These tips will help you get the most out of your telehealth visit.

Read Now

About the Author

Dr. Christina Smarik Snyder - Family Medicine

Dr. Christina Smarik Snyder received her medical degree from the University of Arizona. She completed her residency in Family Medicine at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center (now Banner University Medical Center-Phoenix). She is Board Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Smarik Snyder, a District Medical Group (DMG) physician, is available for consultations …

Read posts by Dr. Christina Smarik Snyder