Communication Tools

Author: Dr. Vrolijk   |   Updated: August 23, 2025   |   Disclaimer   |   Review Process   |   References

Author: Dr. Vrolijk   

Updated: August 23, 2025   

Disclaimer   |   Review Process   |   References

Medicine has its own language. Because of this, even people who are smart and skilled at communicating can have a hard time. On top of that, the system of medicine is confusing. That’s why we created tools to help with common problems patients face. They’re written by doctors who want to help you get the care you need.

Support for Bias & Unfair Treatment

Some people face bias in healthcare because of their race, weight, sexuality, gender, or other factors. This is real, documented, and not your fault. Speaking up can be much harder when facing bias.

Ways to Get Extra Help

  • See if you can switch doctors
  • Get a second opinion from another doctor
  • Have someone come with you to the visit
  • Get a patient advocate (see how to find one below)
How to Find a Patient Advocate

Your Hospital

  • Online – Search for your hospital’s name and “patient advocate”
  • Call – Call the hospital and ask to talk to a patient advocate
  • Go to the front desk – Ask staff how to talk to a patient advocate

Nonprofits

  • If you have been diagnosed with a health problem – Search online for your health problem’s name and “patient advocate”
  • Ask your doctor’s office about nonprofits that can help
  • Visit Patient Advocate Foundation – a nonprofit with advocates and other patient support resources

During Your Visit

  • Ask a support person to take notes during the visit
  • Ask to audio record the visit (check your state laws if you want to record without asking)
  • Use patient portal for follow-up questions

If Something Happened

  • File a complaint with hospital’s patient relations department
  • For serious issues – report to state medical boards

Talking about Medication Problems

Talking about medicine problems can be hard. Some people feel like they’re complaining if they call about side effects.

But your medical provider can help. They can help you find a better medicine or suggest other solutions. Some side effects can be dangerous. Your healthcare provider can explain if a problem is serious or not.

Some Common Concerns

Here are some common concerns and ways you might bring them up. Don’t worry about using these words. They’re just here to help you get started.

  • Medication isn’t working: “I’ve been taking [medication] for [time]. But I haven’t noticed [what it should be doing]. What are the next steps?”
  • Side effects: “I’m having [specific side effect] that started [time] after I began taking this medicine. It’s making it hard to do [activity]”
  • Want to Stop Taking It: “I’ve been taking this for [time period] and my [symptoms/readings] have been [stable/normal]. Do I still need this?”
How to Start These Conversations

When You're Worried about Sharing

Sometimes you might have something hard to talk about during an appointment. Other times there can be a  communication breakdown. These situations are stressful for most patients. Below are some common challenges patients face and ideas for dealing with them.

If Sharing Feels Risky

  • Try starting with your main health concern and seeing how they respond
  • Stick to information that directly relates to your symptoms
  • Asking “How would that information help with my care?” if they ask about something sensitive
  • You don’t have to share everything in the first visit

Common Challenging Topics

More privacy: Ask to speak to your provider alone or in a quieter place.

More information: It’s okay to ask more questions or say you don’t understand. You can ask for another appointment too.

Lower cost: Many hospitals and doctor’s offices can help you find ways to afford the treatment you need. Sometimes they can prescribe you a cheaper medicine.

More Ways to Speak Up at Appointments

When You Don't Feel Heard

  • Tell them what you’re worried about
  • Describe how it affects your life
  • Ask them to explain their thinking
  • Express any concerns for safety
  • Ask them to summarize your concerns
Ways to Get Your Doctor's Attention

When Your Medical Team Doesn't Make Sense

  • Ask for a simpler explanation
  • Ask to see an example or picture
  • Say you need it broken down into steps
  • Get the information written down
  • Check your understanding
Questions That Get Clearer Answers

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Clinical experience from multiple clinicians

We take quality seriously. Every health guide goes through this review process:

Medical Review

  • At least one doctor in the content field reviews all health information

    • MD, DO, PhD/PsyD, OD, DMD, DDS depending on the content

  • Doctors check that all medical facts are correct

  • We update our content when new medical evidence comes out

Sources & Evidence

  • All content is based on current medical guidelines and research
  • We cite our sources so you can learn more

Reading Level Check

  • We test all content to make sure it’s easy to read
  • We avoid medical jargon or explain it clearly when needed
  • We break down complex topics into simple steps

Accessible Design

  • We design materials to work for people with different needs
  • We use clear fonts and good color contrast
  • We organize content with clear headings and simple layouts
  • We follow web accessibility guidelines

We regularly review and update our materials based on:

  • New medical research
  • User feedback
  • Changes in medical guidelines

You can find the last update date at the top of each page.

Found an error or have a suggestion?

Contact Us – We want to fix it as soon as possible!

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