Being a good patient means doing what you can in concert with the medical system to maximise your quantity and quality of life. Here’s a list of ways to do:
- Be on time for your appointments.
- Be nice to everyone you meet.
- Take your meds as directed.
- Follow all prep instructions.
- Get your tests done on time.
- Do your screenings as required.
- Be absolutely open and honest with your doctors.
- Help your doctors help you by having a list of questions in advance.
- Don’t be afraid to educate your doctors as needed.
- When you need help, ask for it. (It feels good to help someone, right. Why deny that feeling to anyone else?).
- If you’re not comfortable with something, say so.
- If there’s something you don’t understand, say so.
- Encourage your doctors to talk to each other.
- Eat right, stay hydrated, rest when you must, and exercise when you can.
