• Give health insurance information.
  • Make sure your doctor’s office has your correct insurance information. This will prevent bill problems.

• Talk to your doctor.
  • Tell your doctor your symptoms or problems. This will prevent bill problems.

• Ask questions. Every time you talk with a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, ask the 3 questions below:
  • What is my main problem?
  • What do I need to do?
  • Why is it important to do this?

Also, ask any other questions that you have. You might want to ask about how to take your medicine or when you should make another appointment.

• Write down answers.
  • Every time you talk with a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, write down the answers to your questions and any other information in your health notebook.

• Make sure you understand.
  • Ask your doctor or nurse to use simple, everyday words.
  • Repeat all instructions back in your own words.
• Ask for a demonstration.
  • If you need to measure your medicines, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to show you how.
  • Ask how to use any equipment you need.
  • Show your provider what you think you are supposed to do. Ask if you are doing it right.
• Ask who to call.
  • Make sure you know what number to call when you have questions or concerns after you leave. Ask how to contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.