What Questions to Ask your Doctor When Managing and Treating a Medical Condition
You finally have a diagnosis, and now the work begins to get your symptoms under better control. Managing a health condition often includes a combination of medications, procedures, follow up appointments, test monitoring, alternative therapies, and lifestyle changes. Every patient is different, so you’ll need to work closely with your care team to find a treatment approach that works best for you. With the potential of a lot of new information heading your way, coming prepared to an appointment with a list of questions can help you feel empowered in your ability to manage your disease.
Below is a round up of questions that could be relevant to your next appointment while you are managing your condition.
If you have concerns about how to treat a new condition:
What types of treatments are available to treat this condition?
What are the short- and long-term plans for treating this condition?
Do certain treatments have better benefits vs. risks?
What is the evidence of treatment effectiveness?
How long will treatment take?
Are there any side effects I should look out for?
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to improve my symptoms?
If you have concerns about a new medication:
How does this medication help?
How long will the medication take to work and how long will I be on this medication?
How should I take the medication, and what should I do if I miss a dose?
Are there any special instructions for taking it?
Is there anything that I should avoid while taking this medication or any interactions I should be aware of?
What are the most common side effects?
Are there any side effects I need to call you about immediately?
Does taking this medication require any in-office check-ups or testing?
Is it okay for me to stop taking this medication at my discretion?
If you have concerns about lifestyle-related treatments:
Do I need physical therapy or other therapies like occupational, speech, etc.?
Are there specific exercises that could help my condition or certain exercises I should avoid?
Is there a specific diet I should follow to better manage my condition?
Are there any alternative medicines or integrative medicine techniques (such as massage, chiropractic adjustments, or acupuncture) that will help my condition?
Are there any supplements I should take to better manage my condition?
If you have concerns about your quality-of-life:
Will my condition impair my ability to work or pursue certain hobbies now or in the future?
Will my condition or its treatment affect my ability to have children?
Do you have any recommendations on mental health services to support me if I experience depression, anxiety, etc., because of my condition?
If you have concerns about how to communicate with your doctor while managing your condition:
How often should I come to you for a check-up for my condition?
In what circumstances should I see you versus my primary care physician?
How far in advance do I need to schedule follow-up appointments?
What is the best way to communicate with you? Email? Patient Portal? Phone?
How Chronius Can Help
Chronius makes appointment preparation as simple as a few clicks – and that includes pre-loading questions for you to select to share with your doctor ahead of your appointment as well as giving you space to add in your own questions. Additionally, our Care Guides are available to you to talk through what questions might be most relevant to your specific situation and upcoming visits.
Interested in learning more and signing up for our waitlist? Visit chroniushealth.com and claim your spot today.
