Your answers to what may seem like your doctor's "small talk" can set the stage for how productive your appointment is going to be. Choose your replies below.
Hi. It's good to see you. It's been a while since we've talked. How are you doing?
I've been doing fine, thanks (even though you've been feeling more tired lately).
Well, that's great. I'm glad to hear you're doing well.
Actually, I have been feeling more tired lately.
Thanks. I'm glad you're letting me know. Tell me more about it.
Thanks.
All right. I'll write you a refill and see you next month.
I'm doing fine, thanks. Well, not really fine. I am feeling more tired lately.
I'm glad you brought it up. Tell me more about it.
I've been feeling more tired than usual, but I don't know if it's just how it is with cancer and my treatment or if there's something I can do about it.
Good question. Let's start by talking about cancer and your treatment.
I've been feeling more tired than usual. But, I guess that's what I always say, right?
Well, it is a part of having cancer. We'll keep tracking it.
It's common to have your doctor make what seems like "just small talk" with you at the beginning of an appointment. But as you know, how you respond may make a big difference in what you discuss. Being open and specific in your responses to what may seem like simple questions can help your doctor know what you really need.
You and your doctor just decided on a new treatment for you. Your doctor gives you a quick (and confusing) overview. Choose your replies below.
So, I want to tell you about the important things you need to know about this treatment . . . (followed by confusing overview).
That wasn't very clear to me, and I want to be sure I understand.
Sure! I'm sorry. We can use a lot of jargon, so it's helpful when you tell me it's confusing. Would you like me to repeat that and you can ask questions as we go?
Yes, thanks! Because what I'm really concerned about is . . .
OK, let's make sure we address that during this appointment.
It's fine. You're the doctor. I trust your judgment.
OK, well, I'm sure you'll understand once you get started. Just read the information when you get home.
Ummm. That's a lot of information, but I guess I can just look it up when I get home.
It sounds like you may have some questions. Let's discuss those.
I'm not really sure what to ask. I'm just confused.
How about I start over and you stop me when something is confusing?
It's OK. I'm sure I'll understand once I get started.
All right. Well, read the information when you get home, like you said.
It's not unusual to feel confused about new medical information from your doctor—especially when it comes to treatment. And you know that getting what you need from your doctor through effective communication can make a big difference, especially once you get home and it's time to start your treatment. That's all the more reason to ask questions and have your doctor clarify anything you need explained.
Your doctor just told you that in addition to managing cancer, you have a few other health concerns that need your attention. You feel overwhelmed and unsure of what else you can do. Choose your replies below.
Your blood pressure and cholesterol are a lot higher than they were at your last appointment.
I know they're pretty high right now. But what does that mean for me?
Having high blood pressure and cholesterol can have negative effects on you. Let's talk through that.
I didn't realize how serious that could be. What can I do to get it under control?
There are a number of things you can do. Let's work together to create a plan.
That's pretty scary, and I'm already dealing with too much.
You need to know how important it is to get this fixed now.
I know they're pretty high right now, but I'm doing the best I can.
Well, you need to do more than that because this is serious.
I'm already dealing with a lot, and I don't know how to fit in exercise and cooking healthy meals, too.
We have some resources in our office. Would you be willing to look at them?
Fine. I'll work on it (to avoid more lecturing).
Great. We'll check your numbers again next month.
Managing cancer is tough. Managing other aspects of your health on top of that can add another layer of stress. You may be tempted to avoid a lecture from your doctor or a conversation about lifestyle changes you don't feel ready for. Your doctor wants to help you with all your health and wellness goals, so think about how you can partner with your doctor to make improvements that matter to you.
As you know, communication can be complicated. And as you've seen, what you say during appointments can influence how well your needs are met. Use this resource to help you prepare for appointments and for talking tips to help you along the way.
Talking tip: Try starting the conversation with what you'd like to focus on.
Talking tip: Try asking your doctor to repeat any confusing information so you can ask questions.
Talking tip: Try thinking of ways you can partner with your doctor to get the information and resources you need.
Great job. You downloaded your This Is Your Conversation. Use it as a reminder of strategies for getting what you need out of your appointments. You'll even get talking tips to help along the way.
Make It More Than Just Small Talk
Talking tip: Try starting the conversation with what you'd like to focus on.
Get A Clear Understanding
Talking tip: Try asking your doctor to repeat any confusing information so you can ask questions.
Partner With Your Doctor
Talking tip: Try thinking of ways you can partner with your doctor to get the information and resources you need.
Great job. Your This Is Your Conversation is on its way. Use it as a reminder of strategies for getting what you need out of your appointments. You'll even get talking tips to help along the way.
Make It More Than Just Small Talk
Talking tip: Try starting the conversation with what you'd like to focus on.
Get A Clear Understanding
Talking tip: Try asking your doctor to repeat any confusing information so you can ask questions.
Partner With Your Doctor
Talking tip: Try thinking of ways you can partner with your doctor to get the information and resources you need.
