Be involved in your medical care. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has begun a nationwide campaign to encourage people to take a more active role in their healthcare. If your doctor recommends that you to have a medical test, ask:
- What is the test for?
- How is the test done?
- Will the test hurt?
- How accurate is the test?
- Is this test covered by my insurance?
- Is this test the only way to find out that information?
- What are the benefits and risks of having this test?
- What do I need to do to prepare for the test?
- How many times have you performed the test?
- When will I get the results?
- What will the results tell me?
- What's the next step after the test?
If you've recently received a diagnosis from your doctor, ask:
- What is my diagnosis?
- What is the technical name for my condition, and what does it mean in plain English?
- What are my treatment options?
- What is my prognosis (outlook for the future)?
- Is there a clinical trial (research study) that is right for me?
- Will I need additional tests?
- What organizations and resources do you recommend for support and information?
- What do I need to do to prepare for the test?
Other lists of questions from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality help people ask about prescription drugs, treatments, and surgeries, as well as about choosing a health plan, a clinician, a hospital, and long-term care.
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. AHRQ's research helps people make more informed decisions and receive healthcare services. |
