Get What You Want From Your GP

Oncologist Dr Ranjana Srivastava, author of author of Tell me the Truth ($32.95; Viking), offers her advice on how to get the most out of your GP appointment.

1. Make an appropriate appointment

Think ahead about why you need to see your doctor. Is it a relatively straightforward thing such as a sore throat or repeat prescription or do you need time to discuss the management of your diabetes or psychological stress at work? Make it clear to the receptionist when you book that you need a longer appointment.

2. Don't get upset by the wait

This can be difficult when you are feeling sick and you just want to get home, but if you’re angry it’s unlikely you’ll get what you want from your appointment. The main reason doctors run late is because it is impossible to judge a patient's until the door is shut—a simple problem may turn out to be something complicated that needs immediate attention. One or two such patients can make the doctor run late for the entire day. Doctors don’t enjoy keeping patients waiting either. Next time you find yourself getting angry, try to imagine that one day you could be the patient needing extra help.

3. Make your agenda clear

Tell the doctor in plain words why you are there, as your reason may not be as obvious as you think. Say something like, 'I am concerned about my heartburn' or ' I am worried that I am gaining too much weight'. Identify at the outset how many different things you want to discuss—it is best to limit them to two or three so your doctor can give them due attention.

4. Write down your questions

It helps to have a notebook with your questions and concerns. Even if you are highly organised and may recall a grocery list without writing it down, chances are that you will forget to ask your doctor something that has been bothering you. The only way of avoiding this is to jot down your most important questions. Remember that your doctor may not have the time to answer all of them but having a list means you can keep ticking some off.

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5. Don't pretend to understand

Over time, doctors get into the habit of speaking a different language and use jargon without realising it, which means doctors dispense a lot of information that patients do not completely understand. This can lead to anxiety as well as serious complications. Your doctor would much rather have you ask something again than go home unsure or distressed. Ask the doctor to repeat the message, write it down or ask for patient information sheets, which are now widely available for a variety of conditions.

6. Take someone trusted along

This is particularly important when you are going have a serious conversation which contains a lot of information. Examples include planning chemotherapy, discussing an operation, or talking about the long-term management of a disease. The initial shock of a bad diagnosis can mean that the rest of the conversation gets completely lost. A trusted relative or friend can be an important source of support as well as a second set of ears to ask questions and jot down some facts and figures for you. It helps both the doctor and patient if the same person can attend subsequent appointments.

7. Don't assume the doctor knows your priorities

The doctor and you both care about your condition but your concerns may differ. The doctor may want to talk about the success rate of a particular cancer treatment you are having while you are worried about whether it will be painful. Your doctor may suggest surgery on a certain date but if what's on top of your mind is being well enough to attend your grandson's concert, bring it up. Your doctor is there to help but you need to be actively involved in the way you want to be helped.

8. Attend a scheduled follow-up

When a doctor specifically indicates that you need to return for an appointment, ensure that you do so. Don't miss an appointment because you feel well or the problem does not bother you any more. The return visit may be so that your doctor is fully satisfied with your progress and wants to rule out anything serious.

9. Tell your doctor what complementary products you take

If you use supplements or complementary products, let your doctor know. Although patients fear that doctors can be judgemental about their habit, the most important reason for telling your doctor is to safeguard your own health. Some products can adversely affect you or interact with prescription medication with serious consequences.

10. Provide feedback to your doctor

Like everyone else, doctors appreciate positive feedback. If you find your doctor's advice particularly reassuring or if he has made a great effort to fit you in on a busy day, show that you are grateful. Just like you, doctors are also busy and stressed—a positive message can lift their spirits. Similarly, if you have a complaint, find a constructive way of making it known. For example, you may say, 'I find myself feeling rushed at some appointments. Are some days better than others for you?' Remember that if you take the trouble to communicate well with your doctor, you will reap the benefits!



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See the November edition of Prevention for some more great advice from Dr Srivastava: Four questions every woman should ask their doctor.