Your Orthopaedic Connection: Do You have Questions for Your Doctor? Write Them Down

Do You have Questions for Your Doctor? Write Them Down

Better health care happens when physicians and patients are on the same page. It's all about communicating. So remember to write down your questions before your appointment. And insist on fully understanding all treatment options discussed, so together you can make the best decisions.

What is Patient-Centered Care?

Patient-centered care is the provision of safe, effective, and timely medical care achieved through cooperation among the physician, an informed and respected patient (and family), and a coordinated health-care team.

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Tips for Your Next Visit

Ask Questions

When appropriate, discuss the following with your orthopaedic surgeon:

Diagnosis
Treatment alternatives
Course of care
Expectations for treatment outcomes
Risks of surgery and possible complications

Learn more about your doctor

Ask about your orthopaedic surgeon's experience and comfort level in diagnosing and treating your type of condition (e.g., how many procedures dies he/she perform each year, has he/she recently read information or attended a class on new ways to treat your condition)

Come prepared

Come prepared with lists that include:

All the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins
Your surgical history with dates
Your complete family medical history
Questions you want answered

Ask questions

Ask questions, voice concerns, and speak up when you do not understand. Ask your orthopaedic surgeon how he or she likes to communicate after the visit (calls, emails, times available, etc).

Always be honest and complete when talking with your orthopaedic surgeon. Share your view and don't hold back information.

Ask your orthopaedic surgeon for easy-to-read brochures or other patient-friendly literature so you can learn about your diagnosis, medical tests and treatment.

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Last reviewed and updated: October 2007

AAOS does not review or endorse accuracy or effectiveness of materials, treatments or physicians.