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Guide for patients and loved ones

How to talk with your doctor

A good conversation is part of good treatment. A little preparation makes every appointment more useful.

Last updated: ~1 min read
Two chairs at a desk
Figure 1.Two chairs at a desk

01Short answer

Before the appointment, write down your 3 most important questions. If you can, bring someone close to take notes. Describe symptoms and medicines accurately and hide nothing, including herbal teas and supplements. Ask again about words you do not understand: “Could you explain that more simply?” At the end, sum up briefly: “So the next step is ..., is that right?” Ask who to contact and how. You can ask permission to make an audio recording.

02Simple explanation

Write 3 key questions in advance.

Sum up at the end.

03Scientific explanation

The “teach-back” method, where the patient repeats what they heard in their own words, is a proven way to reduce misunderstanding.

Patients have been shown to forget much of what they hear at appointments quickly; notes and a companion make up for this.

04What happens in the body?

Before

3 questions, a symptom diary, the medicine list and recent tests.

During

Speak honestly, ask again and take notes. Ask permission to record.

An open notebook
Figure 2.An open notebook — How to talk with your doctor

After

Share the summary with family, put the next date in the calendar and note new questions.

A face-to-face talk with the doctor
Figure 3.A face-to-face talk with the doctor

05Steps to a good conversation

Four steps.

Prepare — 3 questions.1Prepare3 questions.
Bring someone — To take notes.2Bring someoneTo take notes.
Ask again — In simple words.3Ask againIn simple words.
Sum up — The next step.4Sum upThe next step.
ClarityThe plan is understood.
TrustA partnership with the team.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Before3 questions, a symptom diary, the medicine list and recent tests.
DuringSpeak honestly, ask again and take notes. Ask permission to record.
AfterShare the summary with family, put the next date in the calendar and note new questions.

07Key terms

Teach-back
Repeating what you heard in your own words.
Second opinion
Another specialist’s view.
Summary
The short outcome of an appointment.

08Key points

  • Write your questions down.
  • Bring someone close.
  • Ask about what is unclear.
  • Sum up at the end.

09Frequently asked questions

I worry about taking up the doctor’s time.

Your questions are part of treatment; ask the most important first.

Can I ask for a second opinion?

Yes, it is normal practice.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. I worry about taking up the doctor’s time.

  2. Can I ask for a second opinion?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Diagnosis
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Treatment
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adjusting to Cancer
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Caring for the Caregiver
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Bleeding and Bruising (Thrombocytopenia) and Cancer Treatment
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Managing Costs and Medical Information
  7. American Cancer Society. Neutropenia (Low White Blood Cell Counts)
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Nutrition in Cancer Care (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  9. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). How to Understand Your Lab Results
  10. NHS. Chemotherapy
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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