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Questions to ask your doctor

Asking questions helps you get the right care. It's OK to write them down, bring them to your appointment, and ask again if something isn't clear.

10 questions you should know36

The U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) suggests these questions:

  1. What is the test for?
  2. When will I get the results?
  3. How do you spell the name of that drug?
  4. Are there any side effects?
  5. Will this medicine interact with medicines that I'm already taking?
  6. Why do I need this treatment?
  7. Are there any alternatives?
  8. What are the possible complications?
  9. Which hospital is best for my needs?
  10. How many times have you done this procedure?

AHRQ also offers a free Question Builder to help you make your own list before an appointment. Read AHRQ's full guide.

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