Asking Your Doctor the Tough Questions

Asking Your Doctor the Tough Questions Lachlan Soper | LachlanSoper.com.au

Trusting Your Doctor When it comes to health and medicine, the best person to talk to is your doctor.

However, sometimes the tough or even embarrassing questions are not easy to ask.

While a lot of people understand that their doctor is there to help them, many still have a tough time working up the courage to speak up about health questions or concerns because it can feel too embarrassing.

Take a look at these tips for asking your doctor the tough questions!

Prioritise Concerns Have your questions prepared.

Often times, doctors only have about 15-20 minutes to talk with their patients. When you have a line of questions for your doctor, have them prepared ahead of time by writing a list.

By preparing, it can help you get used to the idea of asking and make it easier to ask. It’s also a good idea to ask your tough questions at the start of your appointment. This way, your doctor has more time to give you a quality answer and explanation.

Use Your Own Words Skip spewing out medical terms to your doctor.

Chances are, you tried researching the tough question online already before working up the courage to ask your doctor. While this can sometimes be helpful, it’s important to tell your doctor how you’re feeling or why the concern has been raised in your own words. Using your own words is better than spewing medical terms you read on the internet. You can even write down your symptoms or experiences beforehand to make sure you tell your doctor everything they need to know.

They’ve Probably Heard it Before There is no need to be embarrassed.

Your doctor has spent many years studying the medical field and has probably seen many patients before you.

Whatever ever tough or embarrassing question you want to ask, they have probably heard it before. Never be too scared to ask because you’re afraid they’ll judge or think it’s strange.

It’s Their Profession They're your doctor, not a stranger.

When it comes down to it, a doctor’s job is to answer any medical question that their patient has. As their patient, you have a professional relationship that allows you to be completely open about your medical concerns and they are there to help you.

Being too embarrassed to ask the tough questions can put a damper on your health and do more harm than good. Be sure to always be open and honest with your doctor.