Before a medical appointment:
- Make a list of questions to take with you. The most important questions should be at the top of the list. Some questions that may be useful are in this booklet .
- Be confident and speak clearly.
- Try to get to the point as soon as you can.
- Stick to one topic at a time.
- Avoid having family members all talking at once. If there are a few family members, you may want to nominate a spokesperson and give them the list of questions.
- Turn off your mobile phone before the appointment.
- Bring your folder of necessary information (overall preparation). Click here for more information.
- Bring copies of any MRI scans or other radiology tests with you if possible, unless they were done at the same hospital as the appointment. It’s always better to be sure the scans are with you than to risk them not being available. Check with the doctors which scans your friend or relative needs to bring to appointments, and which are no longer relevant.
Don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t understand something that is said.
You can ask if they have any information sheets on the topic too.
Offer information:
- Tell the health professional what problems/symptoms/issues have arisen for you and your friend or relative
- Describe the symptoms your friend or relative is expriencing
- It’s OK to ask for more information if you do not understand
- It’s OK to ask the health professional to help: “Please can you write that down?”, “Please can you write down the main points?”, the name of a medication, and so on.
- Write down the answers during the appointment or shortly afterwards
Make use of support people:
- Bring a friend or other family member with you to help ask the questions and remember the answers. Bring someone with you who can take notes while you concentrate on what is being said.
- A relationship with your health care team based on mutual trust and respect will stand you in good stead over this journey. Remember that your health care team are trying to do their best for you and your loved one.
- Ask the Cancer Nurse Coordinator or a nurse to assist
- A social worker can also act as an advocate for you and your friend or relative if you are having difficulty communicating with your doctors.
If you are uncertain about something, check what is meant before you leave the office or the department or call and speak to someone.