Bring the problem you want help with.

Describe what you want to change

Note the concern, its start date and the effect it has on your day.

Think about what you have already tried. Bring the questions that keep coming back.

If an ad caught your eye, bring its claim so the health professional can explain it.

Have your medicine list ready

Prepare a list of medicines and supplements. Add the health conditions and past reactions you want to discuss.

Bring relevant records you already have. Ask what else is needed before paying for new tests.

Ask what a test would change

What will this test help decide? Does it need to happen before treatment is considered? Who will explain the result?

If your assessment needs tests, the treating professional must provide access to testing or refer you to someone able to do so. This advice comes from the Federation of State Medical Boards. Its member boards oversee doctors.

State boards can use this advice about good care. It does not say that everyone needs the same tests.

Ask about choices, including no medicine

Ask what else could address the problem. How would the options compare? What would the health professional want to learn first?

A discussion can end with more questions or a different plan. You can ask for time to think.

Leave with a plan you can explain

Say the plan back in your own words. Ask who to reach, when you will hear about results and what the next visit is for.

Ask for written costs before agreeing to ongoing charges.