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How to Get on Your Doc’s Good Side
October 1st, 2009
Dr. Jeremy Friedman of Sick Kids
‘Tis the season for colds and the flu, which means you’ll probably be seeing a lot of your child’s doctor. Dr. Jeremy Friedman, Chief of Pediatric Medicine at the Hospital for Sick Kids in Toronto, shares some tips on how to maintain a strong relationship.
1. COME PREPARED FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT. If you have some specific questions, write them down in advance. Never be afraid that your questions may be silly; it is likely something that your doctor will have heard from many different parents on a regular basis.
2. IF POSSIBLE, BRING YOUR SPOUSE/PARTNER TO AT LEAST ONE APPOINTMENT. It is always nice to meet the whole family and helps give insight into the family dynamic. Plus, if you are bringing in your busy toddler, it often helps to have another set of hands (family member, friend).
3. TRY TO STICK TO THE RULES OF THE DOCTOR’S PRACTICE REGARDING THINGS LIKE PHONE CALLS, AFTER HOURS, ETC. If you feel the rules are unreasonable, speak to the staff about them. If you’re still not satisfied after a conversation, perhaps that particular doctor isn’t a good fit for you.
4. BE HONEST AND OPEN. If you are using alternative or complementary medicines or practitioners, advise your doctor of this. If you are having difficulties coping with your child’s ailment, share this with your doctor, who may be able to advise or at least refer you for help.
5. KEEP YOUR DOCTOR UP TO DATE. I love to hear about my patients’ accomplishments and healthy milestones and not just their fevers and earaches, so an occasional note, letter or picture goes a long way!
Get more advice from Dr. Friedman:
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