Research shows only 1 in 3 patients prepare questions to ask at their appointment, and as a result may leave a consultation unclear on the importance and impact of taking a prescribed medication, or without a clear understanding of the options they have for shaping or managing their own healthcare.
A new government campaign called 'Its okay to ask' is trying to address this problem. Patients need to know simply one thing “It’s OK to ask.”
The questions we want people to consider are:
- What are the benefits of my treatment?
- What are the risks of my treatment?
- Are there other treatments I can try?
- What if I do nothing?
These questions facilitate open and helpful conversations with healthcare professionals. Try to think of these questions and have them in your mind [or write them down] if you feel nervous before talking to any health professional. It will benefit you to know more about your treatment and it will also help the doctor or other health professional to give you the right advice.
Just remember “It’s OK to ask.”
More info: https://www.nhsinform.scot/oktoask
