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Having more than one health problem can be confusing. You may have problems understanding what you're supposed to do for each health problem.

Here are some examples:

• One doctor may suggest a high protein diet for COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), while another may want you to limit protein.
• You may be told to use corticosteroid medicines for COPD, but also to avoid them because you have diabetes.
• One doctor may want you to exercise a certain way, but another one may say you need to avoid exercise.
• One doctor may suggest a surgery at one hospital, but you may want to use another hospital.
• One doctor may order a CT scan, but you think you just had one last month for another doctor.

If you receive different directions from different doctors:

• Say so right away. Ask the one doctor to call the other and talk about the best approach.
• Contact your primary care doctor. Ask him or her to help you find what you need to do.
• Remember that it's your team, and your wishes are important. For example, if a hospital close to you and one farther away have the same care, tell your team that distance matters when choosing a hospital.
• Don't act until you are sure. For example, if you think you've just had a test, don't schedule another until you know whether you need it or already have had it.