Research shows that patients who communicate openly with their doctors have better treatment adherence and health outcomes. Yet most Indians spend less than 5 minutes with their doctor per visit.
8 Tips for Better Doctor-Patient Communication
- Write down your symptoms before the appointment — include duration, severity, and triggers
- Bring all previous reports, prescriptions, and test results
- Be honest about lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol)
- Ask for clarification if you don't understand something
- Don't minimise symptoms — mention everything, even if it seems unrelated
- Ask about side effects of prescribed medications
- Confirm the follow-up plan before leaving
- Use the Doctorato chat feature to send follow-up questions after your appointment
Questions to Always Ask Your Doctor
- What is my diagnosis?
- What are my treatment options?
- What happens if I don't treat this?
- Are there lifestyle changes that can help?
- When should I come back?
