PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — In their weekly segment, KYW's Michelle Durham and KYW Medical Editor Dr. Brian McDonough answer a listener question about the best way to prepare for a doctor appointment.
McDonough's advice: To make the most of your time with the doctor, prepare by writing down your questions.
"A lot of people don't feel they should ask questions, especially people maybe who are over 40. They go, 'I don't want to upset the doctor.' No. Upset the doctor. You should ask questions. That's what the visit's worth," McDonough said.
Speaking from experience, he says, doctors appreciate when patients are organized and engaged in their care. It helps them avoid forgetting key points, especially when several topics arise at the same time.
"I love it when people bring up questions, because it spurs conversation — and conversation that means something to the patient."
McDonough says it's also beneficial for patients to take notes during hospital stays to help them better manage their care and medications. And before leaving the hospital, he advises, patients should insist on thorough discharge planning to avoid misunderstandings and errors.
It's easy to ask Dr. Brain McDonough a question. Just email us at askdrbrian@kywnewsradio.com.
