For example, there may be a range of possible causes for your health issues, and some of them can be eliminated by testing. Yet not every test yields a result that leads to the best solution for the patient.

You Have To Ask Questions

Keep in mind that you are in the doctor’s office to seek assistance, not domination. You may have legitimate concerns about the side-effects of many treatments. Moreover, insurance often does not cover the entire cost of a range of treatments, which can leave you on the hook for hundreds of dollars, or even thousands, for unnecessary tests and medicines. Not to mention the inconvenience, anxiety and physical stress of the testing itself.

There are ways to make sure that you aren’t bullied or otherwise intimidated into accepting unnecessary medical tests. First, ask questions, particularly if the doctor is throwing a lot of medical jargon at you that you don’t understand. It helps to have a friend or relative with you for support, particularly if English is not your mother tongue.

Keep in mind that you are the customer. The doctor can recommend, but ultimately it is up to you to accept. Again, ask questions about alternatives to the recommended treatments or tests, and feel free to bring up the financial aspects. It’s also wise to summarize with the doctor what your understanding is of the need for any procedures or tests. That way, you’re both on the same page and you will leave feeling that you’ve reached a mutual understanding of the necessity for any further actions.