How does the information you provide to members of your health team, especially your doctor, affect your care?

The information you provide the health care team helps:

• Form the diagnosis
• Make decisions about your therapy (by providing information on how you feel about certain issues such as making lifestyle changes, adverse effects of drugs, cost of drugs, etc.)

How can I make the most of the limited time I have during the medical visit?

The following suggestions will help foster productive interaction with your doctor:

• Summarize your medical history in writing.
• Bring all your important medical records with you (notes from other doctors, seizure calendars, lab results).
• Bring a written list of questions, but limit it to about five questions. You can save others for the next visit, or perhaps ask the nurse.

How can I make sure I get all the information from the medical visit that I need?

• Leave the visit with a clear understanding of the treatment plan. Ask for written instructions, particularly on how to take medications.
• Know what to do if another seizure occurs or if you miss your medication.
• Communicate your needs to your doctor, even those that involve sensitive issues.
• If important questions come up after you leave the doctor's office, call later. The nurse may be able to help.

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, M.D.
Last Reviewed:12/15/06