There's no relationship where the bond of trust should be so strong as that between a doctor and patient. Patients rely on doctors to help them make life-saving decisions. Unfortunately, doctors are no longer held in such high esteem because the public is losing their trust in them. The biggest complaint from patients is that they don’t feel heard by their doctors. A Harris Poll survey on patient experience found that 52% of Americans feel their symptoms are “ignored, dismissed, or not believed” when seeking medical treatment. If you don’t feel like your doctor isn't helping or listening to your needs, there are steps you can take to advocate for the medical attention and care you deserve.
- • Prepare for your appointment. Jot down your symptoms, questions, or any concerns you want to discuss. Having notes can help you stay on track and ensure that you’re covering everything.
- • Be honest and direct with your doctor. When sharing your symptoms, use specific examples to illustrate your points. For instance, instead of saying, “I feel tired,” try, “I feel so exhausted that I can’t get through my workday without multiple breaks.”
- • Ask questions. If you don’t understand something your doctor says, ask for more information. It’s important to fully grasp your diagnosis or upcoming tests, treatment options, and next steps. You have the right to understand your own health and the plan for managing it.
- • Bring a friend or family member. It can sometimes be helpful to bring a friend or family member to provide moral support, help you remember the details of the discussion, or even to advocate on your behalf if you feel overwhelmed.
- • Ask for more time. Many patients complain about feeling rushed when seeing their doctor. Some practices offer extended visits for patients with complex issues or multiple concerns, so don’t be afraid to ask for extra time.
- • Advocate for yourself. You are your own best advocate, so don’t be afraid to speak up if your doctor doesn’t seem to be listening to you. You can say something like, “I feel like my concerns aren’t being fully addressed. Can we explore this further?” It’s okay to be assertive about your health and your needs.
If, after all this, you still feel unheard, it may be time to find a new doctor.
