People who are actively involved in their own healthcare tend to be healthier overall and have better outcomes when they do get sick. Having the knowledge, skills, beliefs, and confidence to manage your health can help you prevent health problems and avoid risky behaviors.
Still, it can be hard to know what to do when it comes to taking charge of your own health. Asking your doctor for guidance about your condition is an excellent first step. Here's a checklist of questions to ask your doctor at your next visit that will get the conversation started:
- What health conditions should I be concerned about because of my age or other factors?
- Can you explain my diagnosis (or test, procedure, treatment plan)?
- Can I make any lifestyle changes to improve my condition?
- What are my treatment options, including nonmedical ones?
- Are there any side effects to this medication or treatment that I should watch for?