Rx for Communicating with Your Doctor/Patient

As of 2016 (the latest Census data available), 15.2% of the United States population is 65 and older. By 2040, the 65-and-older-population will rise to 21.7%.

More geriatric physicians – doctors who specialize in the care of elderly – are needed to provide the complex treatments typically required by a population with several chronic conditions requiring multiple medications. A fact of life for many of us who are growing older – we require a greater share of healthcare services and doctors’ time.

Primary care physicians, general practitioners, and family doctors are not sufficiently trained to treat elders; yet are increasingly called upon to diagnose and prescribe treatment, sometimes with fatal results.

Applying Tools & Communication Skills

Doctors and patients who view themselves as partners as they follow these 5 tips will insure optimal medical care.

Patient: Create a list of 3 issues to discuss with your doctor.
List these in priority order to ensure the most important issues are covered during the 10 – 15 minutes of face-time you share with your doctor.
Doctor: Communicate clearly with your patient.
Attentively listen to what s/he says. Take notes to help you and your patient stay focused. Discuss the need for tests. Discuss treatment options and the reasons for, risks and side effects of each option. Make sure your patient comprehends the recommended care plan by asking him/her to explain his/her understanding.
Patient: Bring a list of your medications, supplements, and treatments to your doctor.
Click here for an easy-to-use Records Matrix for Rx, Supplements.
“Be more assertive with doctors. It’s okay to bring an advocate. While I’ve had lists before, your system is much more organized–like keeping questions in one file that I can grab and copy when we see my son’s doctors.”
– Sharon Parker, 20-plus year Caregiver to son with spinal cord injury
Doctor: Be patient with your older patient.
Visualize talking with your own cherished family elder. Commit to devoting dedicated extended time with your older patient, at least once a year.
Patient: Take notes and, if needed, bring a family, friend, or advocate with you to the doctor.
For more information, click on:
Rx for Talking with Your Patient / Doctor
TALK with your Doctor! (Part I of III) Patient Advocate: Should you bring one?

Patients and doctors can take steps together to communicate more openly, clearly, and meaningfully, ensuring better medical care. Results: Reduced Misdiagnoses, Increased Patient-Doctor Satisfaction, Greater Adherence to Treatment, and Reduced Risk of Fatalities.