What questions should I ask my doctor? Should I bring another person along or take notes to help me remember things?

Do you know what they call a doctor who graduated in the bottom 10% of their medical school class? Answer: doctor. We are not suggesting that your doctor is in that category, but the point is that you should look at a doctor as a human being – just like you. They make mistakes, and they don’t know everything, so be sure to challenge them to help educate you as they move along. It is their job and really what you are paying them to do. A CDHP encourages you to be engaged, educated, and empowered. You are your best health advocate, and asking the right questions will help you build your healthcare confidence.

In most cases, it is not necessary to bring along another person to your doctor’s office, as a CDHP is comprehensive insurance just like a traditional plan. What makes a CDHP different is how claims are covered, not whether or not they are covered. There are many areas you will need to know regarding your health.

At a high level, it is important to look at yourself as a consumer of healthcare rather than as just a patient. As such, you should be prepared to ask questions on your diagnosis, second opinions, and alternate treatments that may be equally effective and less expensive. Ask your doctor questions, and make sure he/she helps you understand how to manage your health challenges, while also making informed, cost-conscious choices. The list of questions below will assist you in making informed healthcare decisions and will help you build your healthcare confidence.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of prepared questions you may wish to ask your doctor regarding your visit.

GENERAL

  • What’s wrong with me?
  • What treatment should I follow, including medical treatment and/or dietary and lifestyle changes?
  • What are the risks?
  • What medicines are you giving me? What are they for?
  • How should I expect to feel during treatment?
  • Where can I find emotional support for me and my family?
  • Are there clinical trials I could participate in?
  • What questions should I ask if I am referred for another procedure?
  • What questions should I be prepared to ask for particular procedures, diagnostic tests, and treatment options?
  • Why is scrutiny important prior to an emergency room visit?
  • Is an ambulatory/urgent care center a better alternative than an emergency room?

IF TESTS ARE ORDERED

  • Do I need testing? If so, what?
  • How much do these tests cost?
  • How much will my health plan pay?
  • How often should I have these tests? Should I call to schedule the test or will the doctor’s office do it for me?
  • How do I prepare for any tests I may need?
  • When and how will I get my test results?

SPECIALISTS

  • Should I see a specialist?
  • Can you recommend a specialist? Is he or she board certified?
  • Does the specialist work out of more than one office?
  • How soon should I be seen by a specialist?
  • What if I can’t get an appointment for a month or more?
  • Should I see someone else?

SURGERY

  • Do I need surgery at this time?
  • Who will perform the surgery?
  • How many times has this surgeon performed the procedure?
  • When should I have this surgery?
  • Do I have any alternative options or non-surgical alternatives? (Ask about minimally invasive procedures versus major ones.)
  • Do I have choices outside of surgery?
  • What are the benefits of this surgery?
  • What are the risks?
  • Where will I have this surgery?
  • Can I have surgery as an outpatient?
  • Where can I get a second opinion?

Coaches' Takeaway

In most cases, it is not necessary to bring along another person to your doctor’s office, as a CDHP is comprehensive insurance just like a traditional plan. What makes a CDHP different is how claims are covered, not whether or not they are covered. There are many areas you will need to know regarding your health. The above list of questions will assist you in making informed healthcare decisions, and they will help you build your healthcare confidence.

Tools & Resources

CDHPCoach’s Storage Facility, where the Coach has organized and compiled a vast amount of tools and resources for you to access.

Library

Housed here are key components and information within the book, Bend the Healthcare Trend which was the impetus behind the CDHPCoach.