Communication between you and your health professional is vital if you are to have practical information about what your medicine is for, how and when to take it, and what side effects to watch out for.

However, good communication is about much more than this. Understanding your illness and treatment possibilities gives you the knowledge you need to make decisions about your health, and feel comfortable about doing so. It can also help you feel more confident about being able to cope with and manage your illness and treatment.

Two-way street

Good communication is a two-way street, and you have a crucial role to play. Honestly telling your health professional about your condition, and the effects of any treatments gives them a more complete picture of you and your condition.

When deciding on treatments, your choice may be influenced by how much the condition affects your life, how much the treatment will cost, the effect the treatment will have on your family, how much time you will need off work, and what you have read in the paper or on the Internet. All these considerations are legitimate, and you need to tell your health professional about them, so they can take them into account.

Asking questions when you don't fully understand or need more information is not disrespectful. Rather, it is essential if you are to make good decisions and avoid mistakes and misunderstandings.

Top ^

Preferences for involvement

Some people want to be more involved in making decisions about their health than others. Whatever your preference, you have a right to receive enough information to understand your illness and your treatment options to the extent that you desire and in a way that you understand.

For more information about communicating with health professionals, obtain or read the National Health and Medical Research Council's 2006 booklet Making Decisions about Tests and Treatments. Ring 02 6269 1000 or email nmm@nationalmailing.com.au, or visit www.nhmrc.gov.au/publications.

Top ^

Tips for getting the most out of a visit to your health professional

• Think about the questions you want to ask and things you want to say before your visit.
• Ask for an interpreter if necessary.
• Consider taking someone with you to be your second set of ears or advocate.
• Ask your health professional to repeat any information that you missed or did not understand.
• Ask your health professional to write down any important information or instructions.
• Ask your health professional to tell you where you can find more information.
• Tell your health professional if you need time to think or discuss something with family members.