by Jan Johnson

Created on: July 09, 2009   Last Updated: July 11, 2009

Being a good patient means not just taking an interest in your care and treatment, but taking control of your health, understanding options of treatment to the best of your capabilities, and protecting your rights as a patient.

Understanding the difference between health and wellness can mean the difference between life and death. Working in the health care industry has made me aware of the diversity in which practitioners interact with patients. While educational materials and information are offered to assist patients in making informed health care decisions, the patient must be able to take this information and make their own decisions, without relying on personal preference.

Communication between the medical practitioner and the patient is essential. Keeping the lines of communication open and discussing diagnoses and the treatment options necessary are critical elements to the patient/practitioner relationship.

Being a good patient means being informed. Familiarize yourself with your medical history. Awareness of changes in health is a first step. Documenting these changes and informing the practitioner is the second step. Communicate health changes as best as you can. For example, what issue brings you to the doctor? What are your symptoms? How long has the problem been occurring? Is this a recurrent problem for which you received treatment previously and with whom? Write down medications you are currently taking; include prescription medications, over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. In fact, bring your medications to the appointment so your practitioner can see what you are taking. Do you have any medication allergies? Also of importance is to document past events, for example surgeries, illnesses or accidents. Offer special notations about family medical history, including heart disease, diabetes or cancer. Creating and informing the practitioner of your medical history through open communication will allow your practitioner to develop the best possible treatment options for you.

Being a good patient means being a smart patient. Be smart about your health. Educate yourself to disease processes, treatments, or tests you may require. You have a right to take an active interest in your health and welfare, and any treatment therein. If you do not like the way your practitioner treats you, or if you believe they are not providing you with adequate information or care, obtain a second opinion. If you have questions, ask them. If your practitioner does not answer your question, find another practitioner who will. You deserve to know and understand your health, your illness, treatment plan options, and most importantly, you deserve an honest answer. You deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Remember, the more you know about your health, the better patient you can be.

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