Re: ways of talking with the doctor and being sure you were taken seriously

[Guest guest]

Great list, !!!

~Carol

> -Green:

>I am very fortunate to have doctors who do take me seriously. However, I do

have problems with ER doctors or new specialists.

Here are things that have helped:

1. Remember that I only get so many minutes with each doctor, so I

prioritize what I want most from the doctor. I try to limit it to

one or two brief descriptors. For example, muscular pain, pancreatic issues,

pain outside my body, depression, full body pain. When the doctors is ready for

more information, she will ask. If my doctor wants to know about my relationship

with others, the condition of my kitchen, etc. She will ask.

2. A friend or family member to help me ask questions and take notes. I hate to

say it, but I get doctor's attention. I know many of you do not have anyone to

go with you to the doctor.

3. A list of all medications, including: drug name, dosage, how often

taken, dr who prescribed, condition prescribed for, and if it is a new

medication within last 3 months.

4. A list of all hospitalizations and ER visits, including: hospital,

dates, reasons for hospitalization

5. An extensive medical history typed up by date. It is about 12 pages. It

contains a very brief entry for each date. I use this as a reference sheet in

case I need to find more information.

6. A summary of that history by " system " , such as: respiratory, nervous,

digestive, muscular, . . . I use this as a reference sheet in case I need to

find more information.