• image.alt
  • With Mayo Clinic diabetes educators

    Nancy Klobassa, R.N., and Peggy Moreland, R.N.

    read biography

Mayo Clinic Health Manager

Get free personalized health guidance for you and your family.

Get Started

Free

E-Newsletter

Subscribe to receive the latest updates on health topics. About our newsletters

  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer
  • Living with diabetes blog

  • Sept. 19, 2009

    Blog: How to talk with your doctor about diabetes

    By Nancy Klobassa, R.N., and Peggy Moreland, R.N.

2 comments posted

I've been in the nursing field for many moons and it's taken me a long time to figure out how to talk with my physician counterparts.

Talking to a physician is a learned skill and I need to use a specific type of communication technique to get the results needed to function in my role at work and get the best results for my patients.

Of course, everyone has their own personality and communication style. Doctors are busy individuals and don't have time for lengthy stories with insignificant details. They just want the facts jack! Doctors are highly intelligent and want accurate information and not assumptions. Doctors are generally type "A" individuals and systematic thinkers. Doctors approach problems using scientific methods. Having said that, here are some suggestions on how to talk with your doctor.

How to talk to your doctor:

  • Be prepared, bring any medications you're taking or a list of current medications you take to the appointment. Include herbal remedies and over the counter medications.
  • Discuss any allergies or reactions you've had to your medications.
  • Bring your blood glucose record book or meter/pump downloads with you (statistics/data to doctors is like a doggie treat for man's best friend, they just love them).
  • Write down a list of questions before the visit.
  • Don't be afraid to speak up and ask questions (if you don't understand something let the provider know). He/she may be able to draw you a picture. Literally.
  • Give information; don't wait to be asked (this will save you time and the physician time).
  • Have an up-to-date health history and necessary labs, X-rays and bring them with you.
  • Don't be embarrassed to give personal information; the provider is there to help you.
  • Bring a family member or buddy with you. This person can help you remember or understand what the provider tells you. They may also help you communicate your needs to the provider.
  • Take notes.

Other points to note:

  • Did your doctor or provider give you written instructions?
  • Did your doctor wash his/her hands before and after examining you?
  • Did you get any brochures or educational material, online or otherwise?
  • Did your doctor do a foot exam?
  • Did you get a contact number for questions or concerns?
  • Follow up appointment?

Comments?

Again, have a great week!

Nancy

2 comments posted

blog index

MY00950

Sept. 19, 2009

© 1998-2009 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Reliable tools for healthier lives," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.


Text Size: smaller largerlarger