Ask what the side effects may be and how to manage them and what will this cost and how often do I have to do this and what are the benefits and risks? What are the long term outcomes from doing these things? Do I have options? Ask for a copy of your tests and outcomes. Don't forget to bring your daily meds in so that we can record what you are taking, how much and when as we don't want to have drug interactions because we are not aware of what you are taking. Be honest with your answers, if you smoke, how much and how often, if you take drugs, what kind and when, including street drugs. Do you drink alcohol? How much and how often and what kind? Also do you any over the counter supplements and again, how much, and how often. We need all this kind of information in order to get you the best outcomes. So not only do we come prepared to the table to discuss your care but you also have a part in this process and your preparations starts before you come to the doctor. You need to have the best rapport with your healthcare team and that requires open, honest communication.
When you become a part of your own healthcare team, then you have the best possible outcomes