Medical Care
Diagnosis
* What is my diagnosis?
* Is my condition chronic or acute?
* Is there anything I can do to cure, treat, and/or prevent it from getting worse?
* Is my condition contagious or genetic?
* How certain are you about this diagnosis?
Treatment
* What is the recommended treatment?
* Is there a support group for my condition?
If you are discussing medications:
* What will the medicine do for my particular problem?
* When, how often, and for how long should I take the medicine?
* How long before the medicine starts working?
* Will there be side effects?
* Will there be interactions with other medications I am taking?
If you are discussing a test:
* What is the test called and how will it help identify the problem? Will it give specific or general information?
* Will more tests be necessary?
* How accurate and reliable is the test?
* How should I prepare for the test?
* Where do I go for the test?
* How and when will I get the test’s results?
If you are discussing surgery:
* What are my options for surgery? Which one do you advise?
* How many of these surgeries have you done and what were the results?
* Can I get a step-by-step account of the procedure, including anesthesia and recovery?
Benefits vs. Risks
* What are the benefits if I go ahead with the treatment?
* What are the possible risks and complications?
* Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
Success
* What is the success rate for the treatment?
* Are there any personal factors that will affect my odds either way?
* How long will the results of treatment last?
Timing
* When is the best time to begin the treatment?
* When can I expect to see results?
Alternatives
* What will happen if I decide to do nothing?
* What are my other options?
Cost
* What is the cost for the treatment?
* What related costs should I consider (e.g., time off work, travel, etc.).
Decision
* You can now make an informed decision.
* You have the right to choose or refuse treatment.
© American Institute for Preventive Medicine