When you are under a doctor's care for an illness or are hospitalized, you will have tests and procedures performed to help in your diagnosis. Keep a list of the tests that have already been completed, tests that have been scheduled, and tests that need to be scheduled. You will want to gather information including the reason each test was ordered, the date of the test, the date the results are received, the meaning of the results, what treatment will be recommended, and the risks and benefits of the proposed treatment.
Ask your doctor if there are alternative tests that could be considered, and why the particular tests were chosen over others. It may be that there are tests that would be useful in your case, but they are not available at the lab or the hospital in your area. In that case, check with your doctor to see if he or she would recommend going to a different area to obtain those tests.
There may be further tests that are scheduled in order to help diagnose your disease or condition, so that a treatment plan can be developed for you. Ask whom you should call to get the test scheduled; the location of the lab or hospital; how to prepare for the test; when the results will be ready; whom to contact to receive the test results; and the date of your next doctor's appointment.
It is important to remember that some tests require special preparation. You may be required to be fasting for a certain period of time and/or to withhold water. You may even be required to have a fasting blood test, then another blood test one some hours later after a meal. Sometimes the directions for the test are not clear, and it is a good idea to check ahead of time with your doctor or the lab.
Sometimes, a clinical trial can be an appropriate treatment option once your test results are in and you and your doctor are coming up with treatment options. Ask your doctor to research for a clinical trial for your condition. You may choose to relocate to a different area if that is where the clinical trial is available.
Always check before all procedures and tests to be sure of your insurance coverage and to see if you need pre-approval. When you call your insurance company, write down the date, whom you talked to, and what was said. Record the number of the person you called, including their direct line or extension. You may have been transferred several times during the call and it can be very difficult to get back to the same person if you need to.
When you have a complete record of the results of tests, and which medical tests remain to be done, you will be able to discuss your treatment options with your doctor and feel more in control of your care.
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SmallTown Duo, owned by Sibyl Day and Mary Benson, publishes medical and legal books for consumers. They offer a downloadable book called "What Did the Doctor Say? A Guide for Leaving the Hospital." The book covers topics such as questions to ask about your medical tests and procedures, how to track them, how to track your doctor visits, and how to avoid common medical errors. If you or someone you know will soon be in the hospital, this book helps with every step of the way. For more information, visit their website at www.SmallTownDuo.com.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
