Medical Care
Key Questions Checklist
Diagnosis
• What is my diagnosis?
• Is my condition chronic or acute?
• Is there anything I can do to cure, treat, and/or prevent it from getting worse?
• Is my condition contagious or genetic?
• How certain are you about this diagnosis?
Treatment
• What is the recommended treatment?
• Is there a support group for my condition?
If you are discussing medications:
• What will the medicine do for my particular problem?
• When, how often, and for how long should I take the medicine?
• How long before the medicine starts working?
• Will there be side effects?
• Will there be interactions with other medications I am taking?
If you are discussing a test:
• What is the test called and how will it help identify the problem? Will it give specific or general information?
• Will more tests be necessary?
• How accurate and reliable is the test?
• How should I prepare for the test?
• Where do I go for the test?
• How and when will I get the test’s results?
If you are discussing surgery:
• What are my options for surgery? Which one do you advise?
• How many of these surgeries have you done and what were the results?
• Can I get a step-by-step account of the procedure, including anesthesia and recovery?
Benefits vs. Risks
• What are the benefits if I go ahead with the treatment?
• What are the possible risks and complications?
• Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
Success
• What is the success rate for the treatment?
• Are there any personal factors that will affect my odds either way?
• How long will the results of treatment last?
Timing
• When is the best time to begin the treatment?
• When can I expect to see results?
Alternatives
• What will happen if I decide to do nothing?
• What are my other options?
Cost
• What is the cost for the treatment?
• What related costs should I consider (e.g., time off work, travel, etc.).
Decision
• You can now make an informed decision.
• You have the right to choose or refuse treatment.
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