Dr. - Patient Relationships

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The doctor/patient relationship is one of the most important relationships there is. Many people don’t stop to consider that their life is literally being put in another person’s hands. What should we be getting out of our doctor visits, and how do we know when it is time to look for another physician? Dr. Marisa Weiss, President and Founder of Breast Cancer.org, shares her personal knowledge of patient/doctor communication, and explains why a good relationship is so necessary to your health and overall well-being.

Warning Signs?
While it is true that many people prefer a knowledgeable doctor to one that is less knowledgeable but has a good “bedside manner,” your gut reaction to your doctor can be very important. If you don’t feel your doctor listens to your questions, there could be cause for concern. If you have gathered your own research on a procedure or condition and they dismiss your findings as unnecessary or unimportant, that is also a red flag! A doctor that enjoys what they do and genuinely wants to help their patients should be excited by new breakthroughs or new information they haven’t been exposed to.

How To Prepare
Getting the most out of your doctor visits requires minimal preparation, but can be very beneficial to you.

• First, write down any questions you have for the doctor concerning your symptoms, treatment, their qualifications…ANYTHING that is important to you. You will feel more prepared for your visit, and will be less likely to forget any important topics you want to discuss.

• Read up on any new treatments or medications you have heard about prior to your appointment. This way you will be more knowledgeable and confident about the topics.

• Reach out to other people who share your concerns. They can be an important source of support for you.

• Know ahead of time how you would like to spend your time with your doctor. If you want answers to specific questions, have them prepared beforehand.

• If you are looking for a new physician, meet with more than one. There is always more than one opinion, and it is best to get as many as possible before making your choice.

• After developing a personal relationship with a doctor, it may seem difficult to find a different one—even if you are unsatisfied with your current doctor’s treatment! Before ending treatment with your current doctor, find a new one first. Then, if you want to, go back to your original physician and explain to them why you decided to switch.