Quote:
Originally Posted by Konzy
I didn't ask for a nerve conduction study or skin biopsy and he didn't mention it at all. I was reluctant to mention it as he may have been annoyed at me asking for a particular test. I'm now regretting that decision.
|
Hi Konzy,
IME, some doctors can be hard to read regarding their openness to patients' proactivity. Some respond positively that the patient is taking a more active role in their care, but some are threatened by it, feeling their knowledge/authority is being challenged.
Sometimes it can be a matter of semantics. Rather than asking
for any particular test, you might ask the doctor's opinion
about having/ordering xxx test. This would be less challenging to the doctor's skill/ego, yet still initiate the conversation. It can be followed up with why/why not questions, or asking about alternatives/plans.
Regarding letters, many doctors now have/use online portals in which patients can request records, prescriptions, ask questions, schedule appointments, etc. This kind of thing they'll usually respond to, or have their staff respond to. Again, it may be a matter or semantics/wording.
Doc