Need to speak to doctor: How do I start... - Mental Health Sup...

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Need to speak to doctor

wendy_mcgawn profile image
7 Replies

How do I start conversation with doctor? Even getting through appointment process with receptionist?

Things are getting on top of me and I cry easily whenever I imagine the conversations I need to have

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wendy_mcgawn profile image
wendy_mcgawn
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7 Replies
Dolphin14 profile image
Dolphin14

I'm not sure what type of conversation you need to have.

But just remember, they are working for you and getting paid to do so.

I would speak firmly but also respectfully. If their tone is condescending or irritated or anything like that you tell them you don't appreciate being talked to that way.

Good luck with this. Take some deep breaths and just go for it.

blackcat64013 profile image
blackcat64013

The receptionist does need to know the reason for the visit. Just ask for a long appointment. To get ready use Dr Google to research getting notes. If you have a trusted person who can come with you, this helps relieve the stress. Nothing is hard as it seems if you can take that first step with someone on your side

_Alex_ profile image
_Alex_ in reply toblackcat64013

At my local GP practice, the receptionist will ask the reason for the appointment (told to do so by doctors) but you are allowed to say it's private and decline to answer. Inevitably reception staff are going to get access to some private medical info anyway.

Consider writing down how you feel so you can remember the problems you are having.

This way will help you remember and not forget anything you need to explain.

Sometimes if your problem is complex and the list is long it may be a good idea to make your appointment into a double one

BOB

_Alex_ profile image
_Alex_

Don't know what system they have at your local doctor's practice, but you could consider signing up for (if they have it) online services. It then takes 30 seconds and a couple of mouse clicks to get an appointment.

I would say plan it out before you go in there. So the basic issue(s) and then more detail of what you experience. If there is a particular treatment option you are interested in, then ask about it, and quite possibly just directly ask for it. You could check first what services are available in your local area.

As for starting things off with a doctor, there is nothing you can really do but just come right out and tell them the basic issue you are complaining about, and maybe how long you have been suffering with it. Add some detail. They will probably ask for certain details.

I know from my own experience, that it isn't always as easy as it should be. I avoided doctors my entire adult life, and it took feeling close to death to book an appointment. Force yourself and get the process started.

You make an appointment with the Receptionist, a time to suit your needs if possible ?

Try making a list of the questions you need to ask the Doctor, this will prevent you forgetting anything then discuss your concerns

You can say at the beginning of your GP Appointment GOOD MORNING, THANK YOU FOR SEEING ME. Sit down

When the doctor explains what is wrong and give you a possible prescription, ask if He wants to see you again, thank him leave the Surgery

BOB

Humanintraining profile image
Humanintraining

How about a spokesperson that speaks in your place? You'll feel more at ease with a person you know and trust with you, that can speak in your place, that person will divert attention, and you can chip in, if and when you're capable of doing so. I'd volunteer but you probably don't live in Belgium.

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