Getting the Best from Your Doctor's Appointments: A Patient’s Perspective

We've all been there. You spend months (or more) waiting for your next appointment with your gastroenterologist. You walk into the clinic, a mix of hope and anxiety swirling in your gut (which, let's face it, is already giving you enough trouble). Then, before you know it, you're walking out eight minutes later feeling deflated, confused, and like you wasted time. The doctor did most of the talking, you barely got a word in edgewise, and now you're left with more questions than answers.

Sound familiar? As someone who's been living with ulcerative colitis for years, I've had my fair share of these frustrating appointments. But over time, I've learned that it doesn't have to be this way. We can take control of our appointments and make them work for us.

Preparation is key

The first step to a successful appointment starts long before you set foot in the doctor's office. In the weeks leading up to your visit, keep a detailed symptom diary. Note your diet, how you feel, any changes in your bowel movements, and your daily life.

This information is gold when it comes to giving your doctor a clear picture of your condition.

Also, write down all the questions you want to ask. In the heat of the moment, it's easy to forget that burning question you've been meaning to ask for months. Having a list ensures you don't leave without the answers you need.

Speak up and set the agenda

Here's a revolutionary idea: start the appointment by telling your doctor what you want to discuss. You could say something like, "Dr. Jones, I have three main concerns I'd like to address today. Can we make sure we cover those?"

This sets the tone for the appointment and ensures your most pressing issues are addressed. It also helps the doctor prioritize the limited time you have together.

Be honest and detailed

When describing your symptoms, be as specific and honest as possible. We sometimes downplay our symptoms out of embarrassment or fear, but remember, your doctor has heard it all before. They need accurate information to provide the best care.

Instead of saying, "I've been having some discomfort," try, "I've been experiencing sharp abdominal pain on my left side, especially after eating, about three times a week for the past month."

The more details you provide, the better your doctor can understand and treat your condition. Bonus points if you’re able to tell them where your bowel movements have been landing on the Bristol Stool Chart.

Ask for clarification

If your doctor says something you don't understand, ask them to explain it in simpler terms. There's no shame in not understanding the first time something is explained. You're there to understand your condition and treatment.

A simple "Could you explain that in layman's terms?" or "I'm not sure I understand. Could you elaborate on that?" can go a long way in ensuring you leave the appointment well-informed.

Helpful tips and questions

Here are some specific tips and questions that I've found helpful during appointments:

• "Can we discuss the pros and cons of this treatment option?" This question opens up a dialogue about your treatment plan and helps you understand the reasoning behind your doctor's recommendations.
• "How will we measure if this treatment is working?" This ensures you and your doctor are on the same page about what success looks like."What lifestyle changes could help manage my symptoms?" Sometimes, small changes in diet or stress management can make a big difference in managing IBD. I also like to ask, “is there anything I should be doing more or less of?”
• Always ask about potential side effects of any new medications. It's better to be prepared than caught off guard.

Don’t end the appointment without doing this:

• Before leaving the appointment I also clarify any next steps. That way, we both understand who is responsible for what, the timeline, and expectations.

You’re the expert on your experience

It might take some practice, and yes, it might feel a bit uncomfortable at first. But trust me, taking an active role in your healthcare is worth it. You're the expert on your body and your experience with IBD. By partnering with your doctor, you can ensure you're getting the best possible care.

So, the next time you have an appointment, walk in prepared and confident. Your future self will thank you for it. After all, we're in this for the long haul – might as well make every minute with our doctors count.