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The following is an on-line version of text from Getting Better (and better)
After Brain Injury/A Survivor's Guide--25 Ideas for Living Smarter and Happier.
Text and formatting have been modified for viewing in various browsers.
Look for a PDF version of selected Ideas in the coming months!
8. A Good Patient Doesn’t
Question The Doctor.
True or False?
  • The doctor is very busy and has more important things to do.

  • If I ask questions, I’ll look stupid.

  • Questioning the doctor is insulting and indicates lack of trust.

  • Asking questions wastes valuable time.

None of the above are good reasons to avoid asking your doctor about your condition and the treatment you need.

Two Basic Facts

1

Understanding your problems and available treatments will help you in the long run.

2

The more you help yourself, the less you’ll need to depend on others.
Sample Worksheet

Questions to Ask at My Next Therapy or Doctor’s Appointment

Q? I’m having a really hard time getting to sleep most nights. Is there anything you can recommend?

A?

 [You would write your health care provider's response here.]

Q?

A?

Q?

A?

Q?

A?

Write down your questions and, when you get them, the answers. Keep adding to the list as new questions come up.

Over time, this list of questions and answers will become more and more helpful as a resource. You may help other survivors by showing them the list.

 

Blank worksheets are provided in the Survivor's Guide.

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Last updated  -  10/02/2008