Tap Into the Knowledge of the Professionals
in Your Doctor's OfficeMany patients complain about how little time their doctors spend with them, too often leaving them with unanswered questions. They feel rushed and frustrated. Reports tell us that actual face time with your doctor may last as little as eight minutes. Most doctors wish they could spend far more time with you, but low insurance reimbursement schedules force them to see too many patients in a day just make enough money to keep their practice doors open. If your doctor spent extra time with all her patients, she would soon go out of business. Knowing your doctor has so little time to spend with you, here are some additional ideas for getting the answers you need: If your doctor recommends medical diagnostic tests, she will be able to explain why she wants you to have them and what she hopes she will, or won’t, find. Additional information can come from the nurses, physician’s assistants or nurse practitioners in the office. They can help you better understand the testing procedure, explain details like what you should wear or how long it will take to get results, or other aspects of the test itself that don’t need the doctor’s expertise. When it comes time to discuss treatment options, your doctor will be the best person to explain them to you. Whenever possible, take notes about those options during your time with your doctor. Then learn more about them either at the library or on the Internet. Once you’ve done your homework, call your doctor’s office and ask to speak with, or make an appointment with the nurse, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant. Any of them will be a goldmine of information for you. Once you’ve had those conversations, you’ll be well-prepared for another meeting with your doctor. Need to refill a prescription? Have questions about your bill or your insurance? Need directions to another facility? Or ready to make your next appointment? There will be a medical assistant, receptionist or clerk who can help you with those kinds of questions. Consider all the people working at your doctor’s office as a part of a team that is there to assist you. By tapping into their expertise, you and your doctor will be far more satisfied with the outcomes of your time together. TOP | 
