A good doctor/patient relationship is built upon three important factors. They are trust, honesty and participation. Building on each of these factors will improve your relationship with your physician and contribute to healthier living.
Having a doctor that you trust is essential to your own well-being. Choosing an MD can be a challenge, but advice from friends and family members can help find a doctor you can have confidence in. You must trust your physician to be competent and well prepared in his field. He should have enough experience to properly diagnose your problems and prescribe appropriate treatments. As a man or woman of integrity you can be assured that your discussions are private and confidential. If you find yourself wondering about the quality of your doctor's advice or if you just don't have enough trust in them to share your deepest concerns then you should probably be searching for a new doctor.
Technology has given us great strides in medical care. But we still haven't figured out how to read someone's mind. Your physician can only help you if you will be honest and forthcoming with him. Some medical conditions are embarrassing. We don't like doctor's visits because know that our life will likely be laid bare. But failing to share all of your problems can lead to a misdiagnosis and improper treatment. And sometimes unwillingness to be honest can be life threatening. Honesty hinges on trust. If you do not trust your doctor you will probably not be honest with her. If you cannot be honest with your doctor then it's time to move on.
In the past, patients were usually passive in the health care relationship. You went to the doctor, they checked your weight, your blood pressure, listened to your heart and lungs and then pronounced your problem. Not so today. Patients are now participants with the MD. In fact, many no longer use the term "patient" but speak of "clients" instead. You play an active role in your own health and wellness.
When you visit your doctor, take along a written list of problems or health changes you have noticed since your last visit. A written list of very specific questions is also useful. While visiting with the doctor be sure and ask those questions and insist on an answer you can understand. Be prepared to write down words that are unfamiliar to you so that you can research them when you get home.
Trust, honesty and participation will pay great health dividends. You will find that your visits to the doctor's office are calmer and less troubling because you are ready to work together with doctor for your own health care. Finding a doctor you can trust, be honest with and participate with can be challenging. But once you've found them you will be greatly rewarded.
Bryant Evans writes about health and fitness at The Belly Monster Blog [http://bellymonsterblog.com] He is a former Registered Nurse who now focuses on better living and patient education.
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