Suggested Questions to Ask the Doctor on Your Behalf or for Someone You Represent

Making informed health care decisions, whether for yourself or a loved one, requires asking the right questions and understanding the answers. The following guide will help you gather essential information from medical professionals, so you can confidently navigate treatment options and advocate for the best possible care.

Questions to Ask About Medical Tests

1. Why is this test being recommended?
2. What are the risks involved with this test?
3. What are the expected benefits for the patient?
4. How will the test results influence treatment decisions?
5. Will the outcome impact the overall prognosis? If so, how?
6. What are the implications if I choose to wait or delay the test?

Questions to Ask About Treatments (Including Surgery, Therapy, and Medication)

1. What is the purpose or goal of the proposed treatment?
2. What are the potential risks of this treatment?
3. What benefits can the patient expect from this treatment?
4. Are there alternative treatments available? What are the risks and benefits of each, including the option of no treatment?
5. What are the next steps if the treatment does not work as expected?
6. What are the risks or consequences of delaying treatment? (If urgent, ask how long you can safely wait.)

Questions to Consider for a Mentally Incapacitated Patient

1. Is the incapacity likely to be permanent, according to medical judgment?
2. How certain is the diagnosis?
3. Are there any new or emerging treatments that could help?
4. Will the treatment provide comfort and minimize pain?
   • For example: Will antibiotics or other interventions reduce suffering or instead prolong discomfort?

Evaluate all options in light of the patient’s wishes, values, and medical condition.

• Always ask for the diagnosis and any possible alternative diagnoses.
• Clarify what to expect in the short term (days/weeks) and long term.
• Request explanations for unfamiliar terms and restate the information in your own words to ensure understanding.
• Remember: Physicians may not always agree on the best approach. Seek as much information as possible before making decisions.
• The patient’s wishes should guide all decisions. If the patient is incapacitated, the surrogate must act in accordance with any advance directives or previously expressed wishes.
• Don’t hesitate to request a private conversation for clarity, especially in stressful or chaotic settings.

Advocating for the Patient

• The patient is the ultimate authority on their own care. If they are unable to communicate, surrogates should act based on the patient’s known preferences or best interests.
• Stress, fear, and unfamiliar medical terminology can complicate communication. Take time to understand and repeat back what you’ve heard.
• Accurate communication with the health care team is essential for making informed choices.

If you need further guidance on health care decision-making or legal planning for yourself or a loved one, contact Shalloway & Shalloway, P.A. at (561) 686-6200 or visit shalloway.com