What information should I give my doctor?

ACS Answer

Go to your appointment prepared. Be sure to take all insurance cards. Get a notebook or a pad of paper and make sure to carry it with you on all your doctor's visits. Some tips on making your visit as efficient as possible include: 

• Write down any questions you want to ask and things you want to discuss.   
• Write down any symptoms you have. Your doctor will ask you specific questions about them so be ready to describe them in detail.   
• Write down all the names of drugs you take and how much or how many you take. Be sure to include over-the-counter drugs and vitamins and supplements. If you can, take all your medicines, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements with you.   
• Be honest with your doctor about your lifestyle habits. Tell them if you smoke or drink, and what your usual diet is like. If topics such as family problems, memory loss, sex, or incontinence embarrass you, tell your doctor. They may be able to find ways to make you more comfortable if these things need to be discussed.

Be assured that your talks with your doctors are private. The information you give them will not be shared with anyone else without your permission.

Related Resources

More information about the doctor-patient relationship.

Find books that cover this and other cancer topics at the American Cancer Society bookstore.

Recommended Consultation

You should consider discussing this topic with your doctor or health care team.

	Printer-Friendly Page
	Email this Page