The doctor/patient relationship is a unique one. Whilst all successful human relationships are founded on mutual
respect, in the healthcare setting, patients can often be made to feel vulnerable. Good
two-way communication is the key to a successful doctor/patient alliance and both you and
your doctor play a crucial role in fostering these relations. Limited time with the doctor, confusing jargon and
a lack of opportunity to ask the right questions, all contribute to coming away from the
surgery less informed and more confused than before you went in.
In response to the common question of “How do I ask my
doctor?” BUPA has teamed up with the Patients Association to review the
Association’s most requested booklet, ‘You and Your Doctor’ which explains how to get the most from consultations. For example, when the problem first started,
whether it has occurred before and how it has affected your lifestyle. It also sets out the patient’s
responsibilities, such as turning up for an appointment on
time and being polite to doctors and surgery staff.
 Dr Paula Franklin, BUPA’s assistant medical director
believes that communication is the key. “When you’re unwell, seeing the
doctor can be difficult and stressful, particularly if you’re worried about what he
or she is going to diagnose. We look after the health and care of more than three million
people and work closely with many thousands of doctors.
This gives us a good understanding of what both patient and doctor need for a
successful outcome and effective communication, which is the key to effective
doctor/patient relationships. “
 To obtain a copy of the ‘You and Your Doctor’
booklet free of charge you can call the Patients Association on 0208 423 9111. Telephone
lines open 10am to 4 pm.
Top Tips for a healthy
consultation:
Doctors
should:
Patients
should:
Keep
your appointment or cancel in good time
Not always expect a prescription
Order repeat prescriptions in good time
Follow the doctor’s medication
Think before calling out the doctor for a home visit. If you can, call the doctor as early as possible
and only call when it is really necessary
Be polite and reasonable
Use your time with the doctor properly
Be honest and open with your doctor (if you are too
embarrassed to discuss a topic with your doctor, consider writing it down in a letter)
Tell him or her about any medicines you are taking
and/or allergies you may have
You can visit BUPA's website
at - http://www.bupa.co.uk/
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