Search our web site for answers to your questions about programs and services to support your health and wellness. We may not have answers to all your problems here and answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you notice unusual symptoms or begin to feel ill, always consult your doctor. We're here to help.

Quick tips when talking with your doctor

The single most important way you can stay healthy is to be an active member of your own health care team. One way to get high-quality health care is to find and use information so that you can take an active role in decisions made about your care.

List your questions and concerns.
Before your appointment, make a list of what you want to ask. When you’re in the waiting room, check your list and organize your thoughts. You can share the list with your doctor or nurse.

Describe your symptoms.
You know important things about your symptoms and your health history. Tell your doctor when your problems started (or what triggers them off) and how they make you feel.

Give your doctor a list of your medications
Your list should include prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and other supplements you’re taking, how often and what strength.

Don't be embarrassed, be honest
Tell the truth about your diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol or drug use, and sexual history. Get over the embarrassment! Your health professionals are here to help you, not judge you.

Describe any allergies you have
Are you allergic to any drugs, foods, pollen, or other things? Don't forget to tell your doctor.

Are you being treated by other health professionals?
Don’t forget to mention if you are being treated by other doctors, including mental health professionals.

Take your time
Never leave anything out because you’re worried about taking up too much time. Be mention all of your concerns before you leave. If you don’t understand the answers your doctor gives you, ask again. You can also ask for written instructions.

Ask questions about any tests and test results
Make sure you understand what tests, if any, you will need. Get instructions on what you need to do to get ready for the test(s). Ask if there are any dangers or side effects. Ask how you can learn the test results. Ask how long it will take to get the results.

Ask questions about your condition or illness
If you're diagnosed with a condition, ask your doctor how you can learn more about it. What caused it? Is it permanent? What can you do to help yourself feel better? How can it be treated?

Pregnant or planning to get pregnant?
Tell your doctor or nurse. Some medicines may not be safe for you. Other medicines should be used with caution if you are pregnant or about to become pregnant.

Ask your doctor about any treatments
Be sure to ask about all of your options for treatment. Ask how long the treatment will last. Ask if it has any side effects. Ask how much it will cost. Ask if it is covered by your health insurance.

Make sure you understand how to take your medications
Ask your doctor about any medicines he or she prescribes for you. What should you do if you miss a dose? Are there any foods, drugs, or activities you should avoid when taking the medicine? Is there a generic brand of the drug you can use? You can also ask your pharmacist if a generic drug is available for your medication.

Ask more questions
If you’re not clear about what your doctor or nurse is asking you to do or why, ask to have it explained again.

Bring a family member or friend
That person can take notes, offer support, and help you remember what was discussed. You can also have that person ask questions.

Do you have special needs?
Call before your visit to tell them if you have special needs. If you don’t speak or understand English well, the office will find an interpreter. If you have a disability, ask if they can accommodate you.

Once you leave the doctor’s office, follow up.

• If you have questions, call.
• If your symptoms get worse, or if you have problems with your medicine, call.
• If you had tests and do not hear from your doctor, call for your test results.
• If your doctor said you need to have certain tests, make appointments at the lab or other offices to get them done.
• If your doctor said you should see a specialist, make an appointment.