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How can I get what I need from my doctor?

222 Answers
Last Updated: 05/26/2022 at 8:27am
How can I get what I need from my doctor?
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Danielle Gonzales, PsyD

Psychologist

Hello! My name is Dani, I am a Psychologist and registered Psych Assistant. I have a passion for helping a different types of clients from all diverse backgrounds!

Top Rated Answers
readingDream88
November 17th, 2017 3:35am
That depends on what you need. If you just ask them about it, you should be able to get what you need!
Anonymous
November 23rd, 2017 2:11pm
doctors usually are competent they'll give you what you need without you making so much efforts for it ...
giggleJoy40
December 1st, 2017 7:12am
Be honest with whats going on. Your doctor can't give you want you need if they don't understand what's wrong with all the details.
palan
December 6th, 2017 6:33pm
I would never tell people to go against their doctor's opinion, but if you really want to be healthy and thriving, you have to be responsible for your own health. It's a bit hard to hear, but health is the sum total of what you eat, feel, think, and surround yourself with. But to be more practical, maybe appeal to his compassionate side by sincerely and straightforwardly telling him or her what you're going through? And do a little research to find a doctor whose personality and philosophy of treatment resonates with you?
musicalEnergy94
December 7th, 2017 4:28am
when you see your Doctor, you should develop a good report with him or her. Before you go to the Dr.'s office you should make a list of all the questions that you have so you don't forget anything to ask. You may want to learn about the different medications too should you get into a conversation about problems that are more complicated. Dr's ask questions about when the symptoms started so you need to know that info. as well.Some dr's want to see you every month for example. If you don't think you need to see your Dr. that often be assertive and let them know that you want to see them every other month because it can be expensive for the visits.
Namastay
December 8th, 2017 5:13am
Talk with your doctor, tell them exactly how your are feeling, and what you think you need to help. They will know best and guide you from there.
Anonymous
December 10th, 2017 4:10pm
Think about what you want from your doctor first, and maybe prepare with someone else, so you're sure you ask the right questions. Also, it's okay to look for another doctor if you're uncomfterble with the one you're seeing right now.
Easylistener
December 15th, 2017 8:42pm
Always be honest about what you're going through, what you've done, or are experiencing so they can make a proper call about your health. Trust your doctor and you'll get the best from them to get what you need.
soothingSpace11
December 29th, 2017 5:20am
I've found that the most important way to communicate with your doctor what you really want and need is to ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF. You are your own best advocate. Only you know if the side affects of a medication are intolerable, only you know if you need a higher dose, only you know if a treatment doesn't feel right or isn't working for you. Remember that whatever feelings you have are VALID, just by virtue of being your feelings, your reactions, and your opinions. Also, if your doctor isn't listening to you or helping you get the care you need, then you can graciously find a second opinion. There are many treatment options out there for you, no matter what physical or mental health problem you are dealing with, including pain management and coping skills. Keep you mind and heart open, and be proactive! You've got this!
Joye74
January 5th, 2018 5:15pm
describe clearly and specifically your challenges. Doctor will suggest you based on your liking choose whatever you need.
ElephantTiger1
January 12th, 2018 12:42am
Sometimes it can be really difficult to get what you need from a doctor especially when you think you haven't been heard. People say to trust the doctor because they always know best but sometimes a doctor doesn't know what is best for every patient. I would suggest if you were able to talk to another doctor or just make it really clear to them how much whatever is going on with you is bothering you.
interestingBerry66
January 18th, 2018 4:50pm
Speak up clearly about your needs and concerns, honestly. They won't know if you don't express yourself honestly.
HouseOfGold21
January 18th, 2018 5:48pm
What you think you need might not be what your doctor thinks you need. Although this can be frustrating, you'll need to be articulate in explaining the way you feel to your doctor. After all, they have years of experience and may be able to suggest something which you hadn't considered.
Anonymous
January 19th, 2018 5:19am
By telling him or her what it is that I am experiencing so that he can provide me the help that I am needing.
Anonymous
January 21st, 2018 1:08am
Be prepared. Write down a list of questions to ask, and a list of what you want to get from your doctor's visit. Make this list a few days before the visit. Sleep over it, then review it: are your demands ecologically correct? Possible, feasible, and within the scope of the doctor's practice? Then go to the appointment with the list in your hands. If things don't go according to your plans either the doctor is not for you, hence change doctor; or your demands/expectations were not ecological; ask someone for help to give you a reality check.
CalmWhisper22
January 24th, 2018 4:51pm
That is a very good question and been asking myself the same thing for the last year. What I am doing is switching up my medical team and the company I am going to. Finding a team I can open up with and that I can trust and that they will all chat with each other.
BalancedLuna
January 26th, 2018 5:44pm
Entering the doctor office with your questions prepared can help to get all your questions answered and not forget anything. If there is something you’re really worried about, asking for a second opinion is also helpful.
Mushu74
January 31st, 2018 11:24pm
A 10 minute appointment can be difficult to express your feelings and to get what you want and need out of such a small appointment, you can always book in for a double appointment or can ask to be referred to a specialist
Anonymous
January 31st, 2018 11:40pm
Sometimes you have to put on your brave pants and ask. Or suggest it and see what your doctor says and accept the answer if it's a no.
JenCounsel29
February 2nd, 2018 9:24am
Have an open conversation with them! Let them know everything that is going on! They are the experts and can help point you in the right direction
Anonymous
February 5th, 2018 10:09am
By telling him / her what you need😮. If you feel shy or nervous just write it on a paper or just tell him by texting your problem. He is there to treat you only. Trust me. He wont judge your problems.
wonderfulSoul777
February 11th, 2018 12:51pm
Be honest with yourself. Truly authentic. Noone here is judging you half as much as you judge yourself. Be honest and direct.
Anonymous
March 1st, 2018 2:54am
The best thing you can do is describe your situation to the best of your ability, and tell them straight-up what you need from them.
Hollie9181
March 1st, 2018 7:19am
You should be absolutely clear about what you need, the more specific you can be the more they can help you. Not all doctors have a background in mental health and are not experts in complex needs. Talk to a therapist who will work with you to understand you needs and create a treatment plan which your doctor will understand. Give them as much information as you can about your thoughts and feelings as well as information on what has changed in your daily life due to your condition. Another helpful tip is to talk slowly, succinctly and try to keep emotions out if your conversation, it will make you easier to understand.
CallMeAnon
March 1st, 2018 2:12pm
Make it clear to them what your needs are, its important to be very clear so that your doctor understands you properly. dont feel ashamed to say anything to them
Anonymous
March 4th, 2018 4:44pm
You can get what you need from your doctor but asking for necessary information and resources from them about an illness you had, flu shot or if you are experiencing unwanted feelings that you think may need an eye on.
Anonymous
March 7th, 2018 4:01pm
Open up to your doctor, trust them, be honest and they should be there to support you with the issue at hand
Anonymous
March 10th, 2018 5:25pm
You need to know that what matters most is you, and to always be completely honest with the doctor and yourself. If something’s not right or you feel like no progress is being made, don’t be afraid to speak up! Your well-being is the priority, and you won’t offend the doctor by being honest. And, there are plenty of doctors out there. Sometimes we just don’t click with the first doctor we try. Honesty is key in helping yourself and your doctor do the best possible to help you. :)
Anonymous
April 4th, 2018 6:30pm
Write down what you need to say before you go in to see the Doctor. Speak calmly and with confidence.
Bubbleycatylistener
April 6th, 2018 9:24am
If you need something from your doctor it is important you first book an appointment and during the appointment you talk about what is wrong with you and why you need medication, tablets etc. Once the doctor knows what is wrong with you he/she can tell you what medication you need or if you even need any