Be Your Own Advocate
Role of Effective Communication
As with any medical issue, the quality, accuracy and timeliness of communications between physicians and patients are critical to successful outcomes. Nurses are also play an important role in communication.
Information is Available
Knowledge is power, especially for patients with breast cancer. So, as the ultimate consumers of healthcare, patients can make the best decisions about their treatment by becoming educated. Information is available to help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options.
The Support of Family and Friends- A Network of Support
Having the support and help of friends and loved ones is also very important. Bringing someone along to medical appointments not only provides emotional support, but also gives the patient a critical back-up: someone who can listen carefully to directions, think of questions to ask and remember details the patient may have forgotten.
Keep Records
To improve and maintain effective communications, patients should prepare a list of specific questions beforehand and write down responses from their healthcare providers, to prevent important concerns from being forgotten during medical appointments.39 Taking notes or recording visits can help too. Some patients find it beneficial to keep track of details in a journal or notebook.
Speak Up
In any conversation with a doctor, patients should be assertive. If they don't understand a doctor, they should ask questions.
Sources:
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