Talking with Your Doctor About MS

Working closely with your healthcare provider can give you a better understanding of your health and your multiple sclerosis treatment options. A better understanding can lead to better control of your MS. The tips below may help you get the most out of your visit.

Making the Most of Your Conversation

All of us lead busy lives, whether we have multiple sclerosis or not. It may be difficult to find the time to prepare for every visit. Your healthcare provider is probably busy as well. But you shouldn't feel rushed or unsatisfied when you leave your healthcare provider's office. Ask any questions that have been on your mind (bring along a notepad with your questions or thoughts). Be sure to take your time and get all of the answers you need.

If your healthcare provider doesn't answer a question you have, be sure to ask it again until you get an answer.

If you don't understand something your healthcare provider says, ask for the information to be rephrased. And be sure you understand their feedback by repeating it back in your own words.

Your healthcare provider understands that every medication has potential benefits and risks. It's essential to talk to your healthcare provider about your MS therapy to determine whether the benefits outweigh any risks.

Bringing Someone Else Along

Friends or relatives are great to have along on your healthcare provider visit. You may want to consider bringing the same person with you every time you visit your healthcare provider.

They can provide:

• Emotional support
• A different perspective (they may notice things you didn't)
• A backup memory (they can add details you may forget to mention to your healthcare provider)
• Note-taking skills (they can write while you speak to your healthcare provider, leaving you free to be fully engaged)