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Better Ways for Patients to Communicate with their Doctors

Better Ways for Patients to Communicate With Their Doctors

Clear, respectful, and assertive communication can significantly improve medical care, safety, and outcomes. The following strategies help patients prepare for appointments, communicate effectively during visits, and reduce the risk of misunderstandings

Prior to an Appointment

  • ✅ Prepare a Written List
    • Write down your questions and concerns in advance.
    • Prioritize the most important issues in case time is limited.
  • ✅ Define Your Goals
    • Be clear about what you want to get out of the appointment, such as:
    • A better understanding of your diagnosis
    • A treatment plan
      • or medication review
    • A referral to a specialist
    • Guidance on next steps or follow-up care
  • ✅ Gather Relevant Information
    • Bring test results, medication lists, symptom logs, or records from other providers.
    • Note when symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, and how they affect daily life.
  • ✅ Bring a Companion
    • A trusted friend or family member can help:
      • Take notes
      • Ask follow-up questions
      • Provide emotional support
  • ✅ Use Assistive Tools
    • Consider assistive devices or supports such as:
      • Visual aids or symptom charts
      • Health apps or note-taking tools
      • Communication or accessibility aids as needed

    During the Appointment

    • Be assertive and Use “I” Statements
      • Assertive communication is respectful and effective.
    • ✅Examples:
      • “I don’t understand this diagnosis—could you explain it more clearly?”
      • “I’m concerned about how this will affect my daily life.”
      • “I need more time to think about this option.”
    • ✅Advocate for Jargon-Free Language
      • Ask for explanations in plain language.
      • Request that the doctor slow down, repeat, or rephrase information.
      • “Could you explain that without medical terms?”
      • “Can you go over that again more slowly?”
    • Ask for Clarification and Summaries
      • Ask the doctor to summarize key points.
      • Repeat back what you heard to confirm understanding.

    In Hospitals and Ongoing Care Settings

    • ✅Be Persistent About New or Worsening Symptoms
      • Notify nursing staff immediately of any new signs or symptoms.
      • If symptoms continue or worsen, follow up again.

    • ✅Persistence is appropriate and necessary
      • Communication lapses between nursing staff and physicians can lead to serious consequences, including delayed treatment and, in extreme cases, death.

      • ✅Escalate When Needed
        • If concerns are not addressed, ask to speak with:
        • The nurse in charge
        • The attending physician
        • A patient advocate or care coordinator
      • ✅Why Patient Assertiveness Matters
      • Patients who communicate clearly and assertively are more likely to:
        • Receive accurate diagnoses
        • Understand treatment options
        • Avoid medical errors
        • Feel respected and involved in their care

      Effective communication is not being difficult—it is a key part of safe, ethical, and patient-centered healthcare.

      Prepared by Lou
      Writer: New Horizons Un-Limited -