It’s important to ask questions… at the doctor’s office

/

We just left Aiden’s 2.5 month visit and I had all of my noticeable concerns/talking points written down, listed and ready to go. Of course, I filled out the couple-page questionnaire that was provided to me, but often never “reviewed” during appointments unless I inquire about them. I’m guessing the purpose is to get you thinking and to encourage you to question things if it doesn’t seem aligned with what’s going on with your child. But this honestly makes me think, how many of us ask questions at the doctor’s office? Even for our own personal appointments?

I’ve been questioning things a lot since I was pregnant. I think it’s mostly anxiety-driven, but also because I understand development and due to my profession have often been exposed to things that are often developmentally inappropriate. It makes me more prepared, aware and sometimes leads to more anxiety because I’m on high alert.

Anyway, that 2-3 week spout of regression, misbehaviors and poor sleep led me to ask any and all questions that came to mind. I inquired about everything from Aiden’s stitches, his post-traumatic stress experience each time we visit the doctor and lack of desire to continue sleeping alone. Not to mention, his weight is ALWAYS a topic of discussion because he’s only in the 11th percentile. I don’t know about you, but who entered parenthood actually knowing what that meant? Granted, I’m good at math, but when you put it in this context, it becomes nerve-wrecking.

Nonetheless, ASK QUESTIONS. Don’t leave your or your child’s doctor’s appointment wondering what your physician meant. ASK for clarity. If you’re concerned about something, NAME IT! If something doesn’t feel right, TALK ABOUT IT! This is your body, your child’s body, your health, your child’s health AND IT MATTERS! It all matters. You are your own and your child’s first advocate. The doctor’s are spending only a small period of time with you and/or your child every 3-6 months or maybe a year. Only YOU know what is truly going on and what concerns you.

So here’s what I want you to do for and at your and/or your child’s next doctor’s appointment:

  • Come prepared with a list of questions/concerns

    • Ask things like (is this developmentally appropriate/normal for his/her age?)

    • What should s/he be doing at this age?

    • Do you have any concerns as his/her pediatrician?

    • Should I be doing anything differently?

  • If there is a health concern:

    • What is the expected time to heal/recover?

    • Are there any alternative treatments/recommendations?

    • What causes this ________ ?

    • Could this have been prevented? How?

These are just a few basic questions that I typically ask if there is an issue or concern that either I or the doctor has. It may seem tedious, but I leave the doctor’s office often feeling good, well-informed and confident in both my child’s health and my own.

As always, thank you for reading!

Please share your experiences in navigating the doctor’s office for either yourself or your child below.

Please like, comment and share!