Hearing a new diagnosis for the first time can catch you off guard. Taking the time to ask questions, gather information, and formulate a treatment plan are important steps to understanding how this new diagnosis will affect you. Here are five questions you should ask to help start your journey back to your optimal health.
What is the name of the disease or condition?
Have your provider write down your diagnosis. You'll want them to be specific on the disease or condition they have diagnosed. This will help you understand it better, and allow you to research and discuss the diagnosis going forward. Remember, there are many layers in almost any diagnosis and you'll need to know what is specific to you.
What is the initial treatment plan?
Some treatment plans can include something as simple as lifestyle changes or medication. Others can include testing, treatments, or even surgery. If the diagnosis is not life-threatening and does not need treatment to begin right away, take the time to research your options, including a second opinion.
If a new medication is part of the plan, ask about side effects or interactions with any current medications. Make certain you understand any instructions for taking the medications, and if there are concerns if you were to miss a dose.
Who will be involved with my care?
Most often your primary care provider will manage your care, but at times you may be referred to a specialist. Clarify who will be the point person to manage your care and all those involved in your care team. This could include doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, technicians, and therapists. It can also include specialists, oncologists, and surgeons. Know who you should reach out if you have questions, concerns, or to clarify treatment plans.
What resources do I have?
You'll probably have more questions after you leave your appointment. Find out who you can reach out to via phone or email at your provider's office. There may be support groups that you can reach out to. When researching online, please proceed with caution. There are many websites with misleading information - ask your provider which websites would be the best resource for your diagosis.
When do I follow up next?
Before you leave your appointment, find out the next time you need to follow-up. Weeks? Three months? Six months? Yearly? As needed? Also, find out who to contact with concerns and what signs/symptoms warrant an immediate call to your provider. Know when you should go directly to the nearest hospital.
Take control of your own health and become an expert on your own diagnosis as you stay on top of your care. Knowledge is power, and when given a new diagnosis being to build your knowledge base and navigate your health journey.
In-Person or Virtual Visit?
There are some concerns that just warrant an office visit. But how can you know when you need to go into the office? Thankfully, you don’t need to stress over this.
In the new world of COVID-19, calls into the office are triaged a bit differently than in the past. While each office has its own protocol, this should give you a general idea of what to expect when you call:
✔️ Your call will be triaged either by a registered nurse or a medical assistant.
✔️ They will be asking you questions regarding your concerns.
✔️ If your concerns warrant an in-person visit, you will be scheduled for an office visit.
✔️ Office visits will look a little different, so expect a list of instructions on how your arrival will look different than in the past.
✔️ No need for an in-person visit? You might still need to speak with your provider and could be offered a telehealth visit.
✔️ Always reach out to the office anytime you have a concern.
✔️ The next steps are to prepare for your office visit or telehealth visit.
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