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Diagnosis
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What is my diagnosis?
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Is my condition chronic or acute?
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Is there anything I can do to cure, treat, and/or prevent it from getting worse?
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Is my condition contagious or genetic?
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How certain are you about this diagnosis?
2.
Treatment
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What is the recommended treatment?
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Is there a support group for my condition?
If you are discussing medications:
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What will the medicine do for my particular
problem?
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When, how often, and for how long should
I take the medicine?
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How long before the medicine starts working?
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Will there be side effects?
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Will there be interactions with other
medications I am taking?
If you are discussing a test:
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What is the test called and how will it
help identify the problem? Will it
give specific or general information?
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Will more tests be necessary?
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How accurate and reliable is the test?
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How should I prepare for the test?
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Where do I go for the test?
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How and when will I get the test’s results?
If you are discussing surgery:
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How many of these surgeries have you done
and what were the results?
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Can I get a step-by-step account of the
procedure, including anesthesia and recovery?
3.
Benefits
vs. Risks
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What are the benefits if I go ahead with
the treatment?
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What are the possible risks and complications?
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Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
4.
Success
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What is the success rate for the treatment?
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Are there any personal factors that will
affect my odds either way?
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How long will the results of treatment
last?
5.
Timing
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When is the best time to begin the treatment?
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When can I expect to see results?
6.
Alternatives
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What will happen if I decide to do nothing?
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What are my other options?
7.
Cost
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What is the cost for the treatment?
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What related costs should I consider (e.g.,
time off work, travel, etc.).
8.
Decision
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You can now make an informed decision.
·
You have the right to choose or refuse
treatment.
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