Central California Alliance for Health | Living Healthy | September 2020

5 HEALTHY When it comes to health care, patients play a major role. Practicing good communication with your primary care provider is an important way to embrace your personal health care journey. Clear and honest communication between you and your primary care provider can help you both build a safe connection. This means you can voice your concerns and make informed choices about your health care. We know that talking with your primary care provider is not always easy. Below are some examples of questions to discuss with your primary care provider if you have health concerns during your visit. Other tips for your visit to the doctor: ● Bring a list of all the medications you are taking. ● Consider asking a friend or family member to go with you for support. ● If you have any medical needs, such as wheelchair access, or require language assistance or interpreting services, let the doctor’s office staff know so they can help you. ● Ask what the office policy is for missed appointments. The office can help to reschedule appointments or provide other options, such as phone appointments, if it is difficult to go to the doctor in person. Talking with your primary care provider Question Example 1. What am I seeing or feeling that I want my primary care provider to check? My left ear aches each time I blow my nose. 2. When did it begin? It started about a week ago when I first caught a cold. 3. What makes it better or worse? It feels worse when I blow my nose and feels better in the morning after I shower. 4. What questions do I have and what worries me? When will I start to feel better? Does the medicine have side effects?