You’ve Been Diagnosed with….

One of the most difficult  tasks that I face as a doctor,  is to look a patient in the eyes and tell them that they face a life altering,  life threatening, or even terminal condition.  In the span of a few seconds a person can go through surprise, fear, anger, disbelief, confusion, despair, and denial.  In a moment dreams seem to whither and die, hopes and expectations vanish.  You’ve been diagnosed with… now what?

How to Make the Most of Your Doctor’s Appointment

The current medical system is one that often requires doctors to see several patients in a short period of time.  Patients may feel rushed or intimidated.  Nodding politely as a condition is described but not necessarily explained, one may leave the appointment only to realize that there are more questions than answers.  How do you make the most of  each doctor’s appointment?