Communicating effectively, sharing information and working together to make decisions about your health will result in the best possible care and outcome for you. In order for this to happen, it is important to know the right questions to ask your doctor, how to discuss your symptoms with them and how to follow-up on your appointments.

What is effective communication with your doctor?

It is also vital the doctor knows about everything that is on your mind at a consultation. Therefore:

• pursue an open dialogue from the very beginning
• list your most important points/questions up front
• make sure your goals match with the doctor 
• share your levels of pain and where you are experiencing it 
• let the doctor know if the pain is getting worse 
• discuss your medication and treatment honestly – even if it is not going as you had hoped 
• discuss any side effects you are experiencing   

Arthritis Ireland Survey Results 

A recent Arthritis Ireland survey of nearly a thousand patients living with arthritis showed that –   

• 65% see a GP regularly  
• 62% see a rheumatologist regularly 

Lots of people see their healthcare professionals regularly, however it is important to make the most of this valuable time to review and reassess treatment plans. 

• 37% felt their doctor explained their condition well  
• 39% said they were satisfied with the time spent by their doctor explaining their condition. 
• 39% felt their condition could have been explained better 

While some people had their arthritis explained well by their doctors, a similar number felt it could have been explained better. By taking PART (see below) in the appointment, people living with arthritis can ensure they understand their condition, what the treatment options are and what the treatment plan and goals are following an appointment. 

• 60% go to their appointment with a prepared list of questions or goals for treatment  

Three-fifths of people surveyed bring a prepared list of questions or goals to a consultation. As well as preparing for the consultation, by bringing a mobile phone, a notepad or trusted friend, patients can ensure that they fully understand the plan after an appointment. 

Take P.A.R.T. in your consultation 

1. Prepare a list of questions, concerns and symptoms to discuss with your doctor
2. Ask questions during your appointment so you understand your treatment plan
3. Repeat what your doctor recommends so you can be sure you understand
4. Take action to reduce any obstacles you may have in following your treatment plan. 

What to do before an appointment with the doctor? 

• be prepared - write down your questions, items to discuss and any changes in your condition 
• don’t be afraid to ask questions 
• repeat it back to the doctor and ask him/her to explain more clearly 
• bringing a family member or a friend can be very helpful 
• think of ways to describe your pain and symptoms – what will I be asked? 
• have as much detail as possible about what’s happened since your last appointment 

What should you do during a consultation with your doctor? 

• take notes – write down any important information or instructions 
• prioritise – introduce important topics as soon as possible in your conversation 
• it is important your doctor knows the whole story of any medication or complementary treatment you are taking 
• share the full extent of your pain and worries – don’t be embarrassed to share details 
• let the doctor know if there are any problems with following their recommendations 
• repeat key points 

What should you do after an appointment with the doctor?

• follow up if you need to 
• remember there is no perfect treatment for everyone 
• it is important to understand that there is no one single treatment that is best for everyone with arthritis 

The Arthritis Ireland Helpline and online forum are available to provide peer support from others who understand exactly what you are living with. Our trained helpline volunteers all live with arthritis themselves and can provide ongoing support and understanding between medical appointments. 

Our self-management courses, adapted exercise classes and mental-health courses are available via our website. You don’t have to go through this alone and there is information and support available.  

This campaign has been kindly supported by AbbVie