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It's a long list, the H.M.O. clock is ticking and there are other
patients behind you. Forget all that. When visiting your eye care
professional, the best way to get the information you need and want is
to ask for it. Take the time to find out what you really need to know.
- What's the diagnosis?
- What caused the condition?
- Can my condition be treated?
- What new symptoms should I watch for?
- Should I begin making any lifestyle changes?
- How often should I see you or any other eye specialist?
- What is the preferred treatment for my condition?
- When should the treatment start and how long will it last?
- What are the benefits of this treatment and how successful is
it?
- What are the risks and possible side effects associated with this
treatment?
- Are there food/drugs/activities I should avoid while undergoing
this treatment?
- If the treatment involves taking medication, what should I do if I miss a dose or have a reaction to the medication?
- Are other treatments available?
- What kind of tests are involved?
- What do you expect to find out from these tests?
- When will we know the results?
- Do I have to do anything special to prepare for these tests?
- Do the tests carry any risks or side effects?
- Will more tests be necessary later?
- Will you send the test results to my primary care physician?
- You say I'll continue to have problems with my vision and that glasses won't help—what now? Do you know of anything that will help, such as magnification, special devices, or services especially for people experiencing vision loss?
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Understanding my diagnosis helped me take control of my vision loss.
