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Prepare for your conversation

Due to stress or emotions, your conversation with the healthcare provider often turns out differently than you had hoped. Only after leaving the appointment do you realise what you wanted to ask. Preparing well helps you get the right information. Read some tips to help you with this.
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Tips for your conversation with the healthcare provider

  • Write down your questions and leave space to note the answers. Examples:
    • What are my treatment options?
    • What are the advantages and disadvantages of each option?
    • What does this mean for my personal situation?
  • Bring someone you trust to the conversation:
    • This person can help you ask your questions.
    • Two people remember more than one.
  • Ask your most important questions first.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification about words you don’t understand.
  • Do you need to make a difficult decision? Ask for time to think about it.

Do you still have questions after the conversation? Schedule a new appointment.

As a patient, you have the right to clear information about your health and any procedure, examination, or treatment.

The doctor will always explain, in an understandable way, how a procedure, examination, or treatment will take place. They will also inform you of any discomfort or risks involved. They will suggest alternative treatments and explain the possible consequences of refusing a procedure, examination, or treatment.

Based on this information, you can decide whether to proceed with the procedure, examination, or treatment.

When you feel adequately informed and give your consent, the doctor records this in your patient file. This is called your informed consent.

For certain procedures (e.g., sterilisation), you must sign a document indicating your informed consent. If you do not give your consent, you must always confirm this in writing.

Last edit: 7 december 2024