36 The Medical System
How to
Get Better
Care
24
risks and benefits of
treatment
➤ It often helps to
think of the questions
you want to ask
before you go for
medical care.
There are many decisions to make when you have a health
problem. One decision is whether to see a health worker,
and what kind of health worker you think you need. If there
is more than one way to treat a problem, you will need to
consider the risks and benefits of each kind of treatment
before you make a decision. You will be able to make the best
decisions—and get the best care—if you can take an active role
in working with your doctor, nurse, or health worker to solve
your health problem.
Know what to expect
You will be best able to take an active role in your health
if you are prepared and know what to expect when you seek
medical care.
Questions about your health
It is best to learn as much as you can about your health
problem before you use the medical system. Reading this book
may help you understand your health problem and the possible
causes. For help thinking about health problems, see “Solving
Health Problems.”
The doctor, nurse, or health worker who sees you should
ask about the problem you are having now and about your
past health. Try to give complete information, even if you
feel uncomfortable, so that the person asking the questions
can learn as much as possible about your health. Always tell
about any medication you are taking, including aspirin or family
planning methods.
You should also have a chance to ask any questions you
may have. It is very important to ask as many questions as you
need to make a good decision about how to solve your health
problem. If these questions have not already been answered,
you may want to ask:
• What are the different ways
this problem can be treated?
• What will the treatment do?
Are there any dangers?
• Will I be cured? Or will the
problem come back?
• How much will the tests and
treatment cost?
• When will I get better?
• Why did the problem happen
and how can I keep it from
happening again?
Many doctors and nurses
may not be used to giving
good information, or they may
be busy and not take the time
to answer your questions. Be
respectful, but firm! They
should answer your questions
until you understand. If
you do not understand, it is
not because you are stupid,
but because they are not
explaining well.
Where Women Have No Doctor 2012