Reader Notice
Introduction
Chapter 1: Choosing a Doctor You Can Talk To
- Decide What You Are Looking for in a Doctor
- Identify Several Possible Doctors
- Consult Reference Sources
- Learn More About Doctors You Are Considering
- Make a Choice
Chapter 2: Tips for Good
Communication
- Getting Ready for Your Appointment
- Be Prepared: Make a List of Your Concerns
- Make Sure You Can See and Hear as Well as Possible
- Consider Bringing a Family Member or Friend
- Plan to Update the Doctor
- Sharing Information With Your Doctor
- Be Honest
- Stick to the Point
- Ask Questions
- Share Your Point of View
- Getting Information From Your Doctor
- Take Notes
- Get Written or Recorded Information
- Remember That Doctors Don't Know Everything
- Talk to Other members of the Health Care Team
Chapter 3: Getting
Started With a New Doctor
- Learn the Basics of the Office
- Share Your Medical History
- Give Information About Your Medications
- Tell the Doctor About Your Habits
Chapter 4: Talking About
Your Health
- Preventing Disease and Disability
- Sharing any Symptoms
- Learning More About Medical Tests
- Discussing Your Diagnosis and What you Can Expect
- Talking About Treatments
- Making the Most of Medications
- Changing Your Daily Habits
- If You Are Hospitalized
- Surgery
- If You Have to Go to the Emergency Room
Chapter 5: Discussing
Sensitive Subjects
- Sexuality
- Incontinence
- Grief, Mourning and Depression
- Memory Problems
- Care in the Event of a Serious Illness
- Problems With Family
- Feeling Unhappy With Your Doctor
Chapter 6: Involving
Your Family and Friends
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