Questions to Ask Your Doctor
The following information comes from Choosing Wisely. Choosing Wisely is a global initiative designed to spark conversations among patients, physicians and other health professionals about appropriate tests and procedures.
Just because tests and treatments are available, doesn’t mean we should always use them.
Tests, treatments and procedures have side-effects and some may even cause harm. For example, CT scans and x-rays expose you to radiation; overuse of antibiotics leads to them becoming less effective; a false positive test may lead to painful and stressful further investigation.
Unnecessary tests do not add value to you or your whānau.
Four questions for health consumers/patients to ask their health professional
Do I really need this test or procedure?
Tests may help you and your doctor or other healthcare professionals determine the problem. Procedures may help to treat it. Understanding why your doctor is considering a test – and weighing up the benefits and risks – is always advisable, and is every patient’s right and responsibility.
What are the risks?
If you have – or don’t have – the test or procedure, what is likely to happen? Are there potential side effects? What are the chances of getting results that aren’t accurate? Could that lead to more testing or another procedure?
Are there simpler, safer options?
Sometimes all you need to do is make lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier foods or exercising more. Or an alternative test or treatment that might deliver useful information, while reducing any potential negative impacts for you.
What happens if I don't do anything?
Ask if your condition might get worse – or better – if you don’t have the test or procedure right away.