Studies consistently show that doctors interrupt patients. There could be a good reason, like getting a patient to clarify a piece of information. But it can also be because the doctor is in a rush and isn’t giving the patient enough attention.
Patients are often frustrated by this and may even claim that it’s medical malpractice. After all, if the doctor doesn’t listen to them and keeps interrupting, and then that doctor makes a diagnostic error, it’s clear that the patient didn’t receive the care they expected. If you’re in this position, here are three tips that can help.
Prepare in advance
Get prepared by writing down the things you want to talk about. Write down your symptoms or any important notes about them – such as when they started or how severe they are. If the doctor interrupts you, you can always refer back to this list.
Focus on key points
When describing your symptoms to the doctor, don’t get wrapped up in the entire story. Try to hit the key points and then circle back to clarify things. It may help to note the three biggest things that you want to say on the list you made above.
Bring someone else with you
Another tactic is simply to take someone to your doctor’s appointment with you. This person can help keep the conversation on track. You may be distracted or overwhelmed with all the information, but this other person has a little bit more separation, so it can be their job to ensure that the meeting doesn’t end until you get to say everything you came in to say.
Unfortunately, medical malpractice does happen. Patients who have suffered harm need to know how to seek financial compensation.
