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Tips for Good Communication

     A basic plan can help doctors communicate better with their patients who have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Fibromyalgia or are in the process of being diagnosed. The following tips can help medical professionals build this health partnership.

During the appointment

• Be prepared for your patient to have a list of questions regarding their health situation.
• Patients may wish to bring a family member or friend to the appointment if they're having cognitive problems.
• Plan to ask your patient about any health changes they've noticed since their last visit.

Gathering information from your patient

• Understand that your patient may be embarrassed or uncomfortable about discussing sensitive subjects such as memory problems, interpersonal relationships, sexual function, etc.
• Fully explain everything from what a medical term means to the cost of treatment.
• Be prepared to extend your allotted appointment time to hear the patient's point of view about symptoms and treatments.

Giving information to your patient

• Your patient may wish to take notes or tape record information during the appointment.
• Provide written or recorded health care advice or prescription instructions.
• Find out what other medications your patient may be taking and what kind of diet they follow.
• Offer to have other members of your medical staff talk with the patient if you are unavailable to spend more time discussing your patient's concerns. Those individuals could be a nurse, physician's assistant, or occupational and physical therapists.