HOW TO DEAL WITH DOCTORS

Ask an assertive, intelligent support person to come to appointments with you. Take a list of questions along. Question your treatment. If you’re told you’re to have a biopsy, for instance, ask why, what the doctor will do with the results and what they’re expecting.

If the doctor prescribes medications you know have side-effects, request a review system. Ask what the markers are for success, when you can expect them and when you can evaluate the effectiveness.

Try the internet, but be careful. Reliable websites, such as the Mayo Clinic, are run by physicians and scientists. SOURCE: Dorothy Kamaker, the founder of Patient Advocates Australia, who recommends the US website assertivepatient.org for more tips.