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How can I prepare questions for my doctor? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: After a life-changing diagnosis, appointments can feel overwhelming.
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  SPEAKER_00: Anxiety, short appointment times, and a lot of new information make it very common to leave and then remember something important that you wanted to ask.
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  SPEAKER_00: Preparing questions for your doctor gives you a way to understand what's happening and what your options are.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now, a helpful place to start is asking yourself what would I most like to understand by the end of this appointment?
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  SPEAKER_00: Your answer can help shape your list, as asking questions is a normal part of care and doctors generally welcome them.
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  SPEAKER_00: And if a thought like I should already know this shows up, remind yourself that this is new to you and it's completely fine to ask for something to be explained again in simpler words.
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  SPEAKER_00: And you can also tell your doctor how you're feeling.
• 0:47
  SPEAKER_00: So, for example, that you're finding it a lot to take in, which can help them pace the conversation as well.
• 0:53
  SPEAKER_00: Now, practical ways to support yourself with this can be to write your questions down before the appointment and put the top two or three first in case time is short.
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  SPEAKER_00: So useful questions to adapt can include what do you think is causing this?
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  SPEAKER_00: Do I need any tests and what will they show?
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  SPEAKER_00: What are my treatment options?
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  SPEAKER_00: What are the possible side effects?
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  SPEAKER_00: What can I do at home to help myself?
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  SPEAKER_00: What should I do if things get worse and when should I seek urgent help?
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  SPEAKER_00: When will I be reviewed?
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  SPEAKER_00: How will I get my results?
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  SPEAKER_00: And so much more.
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  SPEAKER_00: And many people find it helpful to bring a friend or family member to help them listen as well.
• 1:34
  SPEAKER_00: Another practical way to support yourself is to take notes during the appointment as well, or ask whether you can record the key answers on your phone.
• 1:42
  SPEAKER_00: Then afterwards, note down anything that is still unclear so it's ready for next time.
• 1:47
  SPEAKER_00: Now, if you leave an appointment still confused, you can contact your GP surgery or care team to ask for clarification, or a specialist nurse if your condition has one, or a pharmacist can help explain things as well.
• 2:01
  SPEAKER_00: If a worry about the diagnosis is affecting your sleep, mood, or daily life, speak to your GP as talking therapy can help you cope with the changes, but for urgent medical concerns and you can also call 111.
• 2:14
  SPEAKER_00: You can return to the app's resources on receiving a life changing diagnosis for further support, and if you are thinking about harming yourself and feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.