Why is it important to establish a partnership with my healthcare provider?

Today, patients are taking an increasingly active role in their health, whether through researching symptoms online or reading studies in magazines. As a result, healthcare providers now also want patients to come to them with questions so that they can help guide them to better health. Ensuring that you are an informed consumer and working to establish a strong relationship with your provider will help you get the most out of your visits, which in turn will help you receive the care you need to maintain your health.

When discussing treatment options with your healthcare provider, let him or her know what matters most to you. Is it most important to have a quick recovery after a treatment, to be pain free, or to be able to walk to the park? Discussing what matters most to you will help you and your provider decide together what treatment is best.

Many patients today seek alternative treatments. Make sure you let your healthcare provider know if you are using complementary and alternative treatments such as herbal remedies and acupuncture.

The following links provide examples and background on alternative treatments: