Following your doctor’s advice

To get 100 per cent benefit, make sure you understand and can use your doctor’s advice when you get home.

·         Ask for written instructions: Have your doctor list the main points as you discuss them. Or request brochures or other published information.

·         Know your prescription: Ask why this drug is best. Find out what you can expect from it, including side effects and how to take it correctly.

·         Expect explanations: Be sure you know why a test is ordered, what it will involve, what the risks are, and how and when you’ll learn results.

·         Repeat what you hear: This process allows your doctor to identify any instructions that aren’t clear.

·         Solve problems together: If you don’t think it’s realistic to follow your doctor’s recommendations, speak up. For example, financial restraints might keep you from buying a certain medication. If you tell your doctor, he or she may know of a less expensive generic medication that will work just well.

                

Source: mayoclinic.com