I recently went to a very interesting Consumer Health workshop. One of the many good websites discussed was Ask Me 3. Basically, this website helps people have better communication with their health care professionals (doctors, nurses and pharmacists). Ask Me 3 refers to three fundamental questions that a person needs to ask:
1. What is my main problem?
2. What do I need to do?
3. Why is it important for me to do this?
Some suggestions for clear health communication are as follows:
Bring a friend or family member with you to the doctor’s. Sometimes we all need a second pair of ears to better understand and remember what is being said.
Bring a list of all your medicines and supplements.
Ask for further information if you don’t understand.
More information and links to printable brochures are given. Everyone has a right to know what their doctor is saying to them. Don’t be afraid to ask again!