Resources for the
questions you carry.

How to prepare for a healthcare appointment

A little preparation can help you make better use of your appointment time. Consider writing down your main concerns, when they started, and what you hope to understand.

A simple checklist

• Write down your top questions and concerns.
• Bring a list of medicines and supplements you take, if relevant.
• Share important changes or symptoms with your clinician.
• Ask for clarification if a term or instruction is unfamiliar.
• Before leaving, make sure you understand the next steps and who to contact with follow-up questions.

Questions you can ask your care team

You can ask for information in a way that works for you. These prompts may help you start a conversation.

• “Could you explain that in a different way?”
• “What are my options, and what are the possible benefits and risks?”
• “What should I watch for, and when should I seek help?”
• “Is there anything I should do to prepare?”
• “Where can I find reliable information about this?”

Making sense of health information online

Online information varies in quality. Before relying on a health claim, check who created it, whether the content is current, and whether it references credible evidence.

• Look for the author's qualifications and the organization's purpose.
• Check when the information was written or updated.
• Look for references to reputable medical or public health sources.
• Be cautious of guarantees, miracle cures, or pressure to buy a product.
• Discuss personal health decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.