5 Common Healthcare Etiquette Mistakes Patients Make
Having to deal with the healthcare system can be stressful, but how you talk to and how you act with medical staff will make a big impact on the care you receive. Many patients make mistakes, not even knowing they're mistakes, that lead to misunderstandings, longer wait times or, maybe even problems with the treatment they receive. Let's take a look at 5 common healthcare etiquette mistakes so you'll know next time how to avoid them!
1. Not Being Prepared for Appointments
So you're running late or you have a lot going on and you just are not prepared for the doctor's visit you've had planned for weeks! The last thing you want to do is to show up to a medical appointment without the important information: your information! Doctors already have limited time per patient visit so if you don't have details about your symptoms, your medical history, or your medications, it just slows down the process of getting you better and makes your visit far less effective.
What to do instead:
• Bring a list of current medications, including dosages.
• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
• Have any necessary medical records or test results ready, especially if you are seeing a new provider.
2. Interrupting or Talking Over the Doctor
If you're lucky enough to get a physician that truly cares, don't be annoyed by the questions. Medical providers have to ask questions so that they can diagnose you properly and treat your problems correctly. If you interrupt for the doctor finishes talking or get easily annoyed because of the numerous questions or if you talk over them with unrelated details, this will definitely lead to confusion and misinformation.
What to do instead:
• Let the doctor ask questions and listen carefully before responding.
• Stick to the main issue unless asked about other concerns.
• If something is unclear, wait for a pause and then ask for clarification.
3. Being Disrespectful to Office Staff
If you're one of those people that are rude to the front desk staff, nurses, and medical assistants, then you are missing out on receiving the proper care. Don't just focus on the doctor and be rude, impatient, or dismissive toward all the other staff that are there to help you
What to do instead:
• Greet staff politely and follow office procedures, such as checking in on time.
• If there is a delay, be patient and ask for an update rather than expressing frustration.
• Remember that staff members communicate with doctors and may have a say in how quickly your concerns are addressed.
4. Not Following Up or Ignoring Instructions
So you went through the process of scheduling an appointment, possibly waiting weeks to months for that appointment, and the day comes where you see your provider and then you just don't follow through! But not following through this could mean you're missing follow-up visits, skipping test, or not taking medication as prescribed. Then you want to get mad at the doctor because you're not getting better, but let's fix that.
What to do instead:
• Write down or ask for a printed copy of instructions before leaving.
• Schedule follow-up visits before leaving the office to avoid delays.
• If something is unclear or difficult to follow, call the office for clarification instead of guessing.
5. Bringing Too Many People to an Appointment
Having support during an appointment can be helpful, but bringing multiple family members or friends can be distracting. A crowded exam room can make it harder for the doctor to focus and may prevent open conversations about sensitive health issues.
What to do instead:
• Bring only one support person unless the doctor says otherwise.
• Make sure the person you bring is helpful and does not take over the conversation.
• If multiple family members need updates, ask the doctor if a group call or written summary would be possible.
Final Thoughts
By practicing good health care etiquette, you not only get the best care but you also make things easier for the people who are there to care for you. By being prepared, listening carefully, treating everyone with respect, following instructions, and keeping appointments simple, you will definitely enhance your health care visit and feel better relationships with your health care provider and staff.
Would you like more tips on communicating effectively with your doctor? Let us know in the comments!