How can I get what I need from my doctor?

Be assertive! Do your research, write down/print off your research, and make sure they know you've done your research. If all else fails, it's time find another doctor. I felt really bad for years with one doctor, I went to a different doctor, and he diagnosed me with celiac disease within a matter of weeks! You have to know what you need, and you have to make sure the doctor knows what you need as well.

Remember that your doctor wants to help because they work to better the lives of others. If you have a conversation about your symptoms they should be able to steer you to the right path, or be able to refer you to a specialist who is an expert in the area.

You just be open and honest with your doctor about your current situation and they will then provide you with their own recommendations (you can either accept or decline), or even suggest something yourself!

Try to prepare a brief checklist of what matters you would like to discuss with your doctor and what you have thought of as reasonable causes and solutions. These days doctors are used to patients who have done research online. However, keep in mind that your doctor knows you better than a website ever can, and try to stay open to suggestions your doctor offers you.

I think that to get what you need most from your doctor first be totally open and honest with them about how you are feeling. We often want feel anxious or shameful about talking about it but that is the time and place, Your doctor is there to help you. If you feel they aren't hearing you say it again. Sometimes what we think we need may not be what is best so again we have to work with the professionals to get what we need and if the doctor you have doesn't listen or can't help don't give up, find someone else. You deserve to be heard and helped.

Don't be afraid to ask! Your doctor will hear thousands of questions in their career and not one of them will be ridiculous or unnecessary. It is up to you to take charge or your physical and mental health, the doctor may not always suggest what you think you need - so ask! If you are a minor and want to ask a question about something you would prefer your parent/guardian not to hear, see if you can book an appointment alone. If this isn't possible, ask them to leave the room or wait outside during your appointment, or try to discreetly ask a nurse/doctor to ask them to leave. Doctors will be more than willing to do this for you, as they know that some topics can be difficult to bring up around guardians. However, if you are in trouble, feel like you need more support, or are concerned about your health, I would recommend you clue your guardian in; mostly, they just want the best for you.

You need to be honest with your doctor. Tell them exactly what the problems are without holding any details back. Being completely honest will allow them to figure out exactly what you need.

Tell them what you need and ask them to give you what you need. They're your doctor, they should always help you.

Be upfront and transparent as you can. Not being honest with your own doctor won't be beneficial to either of you.

The relationship between patient-doctor must be of respect, honesty and openness. No doctor can help a patient if the person being cared for is not willing to speak from their hearts with their doctor.