Getting the Most Out of Your Doctor's Visit

Have you ever gone to the doctor and not understood what you were told? Has he or she used medical jargon that is over your head? Have you left the physician's office not understanding the next steps? Or felt like your doctor doesn't understand what you are going through? Well, you are not alone.

Many people have a hard time communicating with their physicians. But research shows that effective communication with your doctor, including understanding your diagnosis and treatment plan, plays an important role in your recovery time and overall improvement.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) recognizes this and is taking steps to ensure that you get the most out of your visit with the orthopaedic surgeon. Most physicians have had limited training in effective communication techniques, and some physician groups are trying to change that. The AAOS, in partnership with The Bayer Institute, offers a training program to teach orthopaedic surgeons that complete clinical care consists not only of the thought to "find and fix it," but that communication skills such as empathy and engagement are important to ensuring a successful visit with a patient. "Orthopaedic surgeons want to connect with their patients. They want their patients to trust and respect them, which in turn will likely make their patients more compliant with a treatment program," says William Schreiber, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon and patient-physician communications trainer. "In order for this to happen, physicians need to learn to communicate better and a communications program like this will help them do that."

William Ferris, a patient of Dr. Schreiber from Holly Lake Ranch, Texas, needed surgery to replace his right knee. "I found it very easy to understand Dr. Schreiber. He reassured me, answered all of my questions and I felt that he really listened to my concerns. I wasn't afraid to ask questions, no matter how simple or complex they were," says Ferris. Ferris and Dr. Schreiber have a great relationship. In fact, when Ferris started having problems with his other knee, he went back to Dr. Schreiber for a partial knee replacement on the left knee. "I am used to playing golf and being active and Dr. Schreiber helped me stay that way. I even recommended him to my neighbors. Five of us on my block have had knee replacements by Dr. Schreiber in the past two years."

Proper communication with a patient will ensure that the best medical attention is given. "The relationship between a physician and patient should be viewed as a partnership," Dr. Schreiber says, "with each partner's contribution considered equal in importance." As a patient, there are certain actions you can take to ensure a good relationship with your physician. The following checklist and tips will help you and your doctor discuss the issues most important to help you get the most out of the visit.

- Before seeing the doctor, prepare a list of questions and points you would like to address. It may be beneficial to take notes during the visit.

- Be honest and complete when talking with your doctor. Share your point of view and don't hold back information about issues that you might consider embarrassing.

- Make sure the physician explains medical terminology that you don't understand, as well as recommendations regarding treatment and medication.

- Ask what to expect from the treatment, the effect it will have on your daily activities and what you can do to prevent further disability.

- Make sure your doctor provides you with handouts or brochures that you and your family members can review at home.

- Ask a family member or friend to go with you to your next visit. This person can help ask questions and address concerns in areas where you have forgotten or weren't able to address.

- Follow the doctor's instructions. Take the full course of medication and make sure you follow the prescribed diet and/or exercise routine.

- If something is confusing or does not seem right, call the doctor's office for advice. His or her staff often knows the answer.

- If you are not getting the answers you need, try to communicate this to your physician. If he or she does not respond, it may be beneficial to seek another opinion.

Your recovery is important. Physicians are there to make your ailments better. Continued dialog between you and your doctor will help you establish a partnership, which in turn, may make your recovery quicker. Internet users can find additional tips, including injury prevention information by visiting the Prevent Injuries America Program section of AAOS's Web site at www.aaos.org or www.orthoinfo.org or calling the Academy's Public Service Line at (800) 824-BONES.