Book Publications The Columbia Presbyterian Guide to Surgery

Page: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

In theory, it sounds great to ask all these questions, but I also imagine a waiting room full of patients. How can I expect the doctor to spend the time with me?

Most physicians today are very busy people. They have to respond to time pressures, life and death emergencies, and your questions. You can't carry on a collaboration without respect for a doctor's time and demands.

Nor should you be so bowled over by the doctor's pace that you feel like you're being bulldozed out of the office. Don't be intimidated and fail to get the answers you need; be proactive. Stop the doctor in his tracks if he seems to be rushing you out the door. Clearly state that you feel pressured and need to ask more questions. If it's impossible for him to talk further at that moment, ask, "What time can I call you so that we can continue this discussion?"

Your primary relationship is with your physician, but he is not the sole resource for the information you need. In a well-run practice, there is a highly skilled support staff to cover all your concerns and questions. They include:

• A physician's assistant or associate (PA). A PA is a licensed, certified clinician who works under the supervision of a physician. If the doctor has a PA in his practice, it is very likely he will participate in your treatment and be a significant resource for your questions. PAs go through an abbreviated medical school program that typically lasts two to three years. They take classes and do hospital rotations alongside medical students. Some go on for further training in a specialty like surgery.
• A nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse (RN) who has advanced education, such as a master's degree, and extensive clinical experience. Under regulations that vary by state, a nurse practitioner is generally allowed to work alone or with a medical team and to examine, diagnose, and prescribe medication for patients. Nurse practitioners work in primary care and in a number of specialties, for which they may be certified by a national board.
• Explanatory materials. These brochures are available through the doctor's office. They are produced by organizations like the American Cancer Society; hospital publications and videos; newspapers and magazine articles from the lay press; and journals from scientific organizations.
• Hospital services. Volunteers who have had the same disease are often available to talk to you on a one-on-one basis, and support groups are some of the resources that hospitals can provide.
• Web sites. Some sites are very useful, including those from hospitals and medical organizations. But you have to proceed with caution as to the validity of other health sites. Anyone can apply for a URL and set up a Web site, so be aware that the content of such sites may not be accurate. (Note: There is a resource list of reliable Web sites on page 319.)

The upshot of the information-gathering process is that you feel your questions and concerns have been answered. Similarly, the surgeon is also gathering more data through additional tests and consultation with colleagues. Deciding on a course of action can take one visit, or several.

Page: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8