Dr. Gil Lederman recommends his readers to be honest about their symptoms and activities that might cause their illness to their doctor. Click to learn more.

1. Communicating with your Doctor
Talking with your doctor might be scary for you. You may even have that “white coat”
syndrome issue where going into a doctor’s office elevates your stress levels enough to raise
your heart rate, blood pressure and anxiety. Here are some strategies to use — whether you get
anxious or not — when visiting with your physician.

2. 1. Make a list of your questions and concerns.
You might even consider emailing or faxing your list ahead of time. Many of your questions
might easily be answered by a physician’s assistant or nurse, so you can always ask if you might
have time with them first. This means the doctor’s time with you will be spent only on what he
does best.
2. Take a pencil and paper to make notes, or tape-record your visit (with the doctor’s
permission of course).
You might also bring a friend who is better informed on medical matters with you to take notes
and ask questions you may not know. That will provide a resource to help you understand any
complicated instructions or issues. But be aware of the doctor’s limited time and stay focused on
three or four questions that you feel are most important to understand. If you need more time,
either let the scheduler know in advance or make another appointment to discuss further.
3. Keep asking for what you need to know.
Find out explanations of treatment goals, side effects, or if there is someone else that could
answer your questions.

3. 4. Be informative.
Make sure your doctor has all the most current information about you, your medications, other
physicians seen, or treatments you are receiving. Then share results of any medical tests you
have had recently. Tell your physician if you only want the basic information or if you want all
the details. And, while you’re at it, let him know about any religious restrictions or cultural
beliefs that will affect your treatment plan.
Don’t forget to show your appreciation for the time he spends with you and the great treatment
you’ve been provided. Get the answers you need but always remember your physician has many
pulls on his time and, if nothing else, use his time with you wisely.
Dr. Gil Lederman is one of the finest Doctors in the United States. He has certification in
Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology and Internal Medicine. He is amongst the top-notch
Doctors in the United States.