Five questions to ask your doctor that may save your life
Annual medical checkups are necessary for maintaining good health. While at the doctor’s office, it is important to be your own health advocate and ask questions. Here are a few suggestions:
1) What medical tests and screenings do I need? Routine blood work evaluates the health of your heart, kidneys, and liver. Regular screenings may include an EKG, mammogram, and colonoscopy. The recommended schedule for these will vary with age, gender, and risk factors.
2) Do I need any vaccinations? These should include an annual flu shot, current coronavirus vaccine, tetanus, and whooping cough. The shingles vaccination is also recommended for those over 50 years of age. The RSV vaccine is recommended for those 75 and older, or 60–74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV.
3) Are all the medications I am taking appropriate? Keep an up-to-date list of all prescription and non-prescription medications and discuss the list with your physician. Be sure each physician knows what others may have prescribed.
4) Am I at risk for any specific medical conditions? Do not underestimate your health risks, especially if you have hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, hormonal changes, or if you smoke, drink alcohol, have a sedentary lifestyle, or are obese. Be sure to discuss your family medical history as well.
5) If I could do one thing to improve my health this year, what would you suggest? This gives both you and your physician a good understanding of your goals for personal healthcare.
Remember, the only bad question is the one you did not ask.
Pastoral Care Director,
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