Speaking Up to Your Doctor
What communication style involves respectfully expressing your needs and concerns?
Assertive communication.
Why is it important to tell your provider about new symptoms?
New symptoms may indicate changes in health that need attention.
What does setting a boundary mean?
Communicating limits in a respectful way.
What are the three main communication styles?
Passive, aggressive, and assertive.
Myth or Fact: Being assertive means being rude.
Myth. Assertiveness is respectful and clear communication.
Before a medical appointment, what is one helpful thing you can do to make sure your concerns are addressed?
Write down questions, symptoms, or concerns.
Name one symptom that should be reported if it suddenly appears or worsens.
Pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, swelling, confusion, etc.
Which is more assertive: staying silent when upset or calmly sharing your feelings?
Calmly sharing your feelings
Which style respects both your needs and the needs of others?
Assertive
Myth or Fact: It is okay to ask your doctor questions about your treatment plan.
Fact
If you do not understand a doctor's explanation, what is an assertive response?
Ask them to explain it again in simpler terms.
What does being an advocate for your health mean?
Speaking up about symptoms, concerns, and needs.
What is an example of a passive statement?
any appropriate passive statement
What are "I" statements used for?
Expressing feelings and needs without blaming others.
Myth or Fact: Setting boundaries with family means you do not care about them.
Myth
True or False: It is okay to ask your provider about medication side effects or concerns.
True
Why is it important to be honest about medication use and health habits?
Accurate information helps providers make safe decisions.
A family member keeps making decisions for you. What is an assertive response?
"I appreciate your concern, but I would like to make that decision myself."
Give an example of an assertive statement.
"I would like..." "I feel..." "I need..."
Myth or Fact: You can disagree with someone and still be respectful.
Fact
A doctor seems rushed and starts leaving before answering your question. What is an assertive statement you could use?
"Before you go, I have one more concern I'd like to discuss."
You notice recurring fatigue but keep dismissing it. What would an assertive health advocate do?
Track symptoms and discuss them with a provider.
Why can assertiveness improve family relationships?
It reduces misunderstandings and promotes respect and healthy communication.
Why is eye contact and confident body language important?
It helps communicate confidence and clarity.
Myth or Fact: If someone gets upset when you express your needs respectfully, you should stop speaking up.
Myth