The relationship between doctors and patients is changing. Several things are happening at once. Patients now have access, via the Internet, to more and better information about health and healthy living than ever before. Doctors' schedules are busier than ever, too, which means that the days of leisurely chats in the doctor's office are disappearing fast. So becoming an educated patient is now easier, but more important, than ever before. By making the most of your time with your doctor, focusing upon trustworthy, credible sources of healthcare information, and scheduling regular check-ups with your physician, you can start to take advantage of this new day in healthcare for doctors and patients.

Make the Most of Your Time with Your Doctor

Though every patient is different, doctors want to know the same general information about all of their patients. By collecting the following information prior to your doctor visit, you can make sure you spend the bulk of your time talking with your physician about the issues that really concern you. At a minimum, your doctor will almost certainly ask you about:

• All current and past illnesses, as well as any chronic conditions you may have
• A list of prescription and over-the-counter medicines you take
• A history of immunizations
• Your family medical history
• What brings you to the doctor's office

When you're talking with your doctor, always ask if you don't understand specific words the doctor is using or what your doctor is recommending is not clear. Good doctors will want to be sure that you understand exactly what they're saying. Repeat visits to the doctor caused by a lack of clear communication will waste everyone's time and money. So make sure you leave the doctor's office with a clear understanding of your particular situation.

Focus on Trustworthy, Credible Sources of Healthcare Information

With the advent of much greater access to information via the Internet, it is becoming easier and faster to do research on potential or current healthcare providers. This can include verifying a physician's license to practice medicine and board certification in his or her area of specialization through trusted organizations such as ABMS.

With the growth of the Internet, there are now also thousands of Web sites offering general and in-depth information on healthcare and healthy living. But be careful! The regulation of Web sites, particularly those Web sites based in countries other than the United States, is practically non-existent. Be especially suspicious of sites that are offering information on healthy living alongside products that are for sale. That doesn't mean that there aren't sites out there offering credible, science-based information on healthcare. Among numerous trustworthy, valuable online sources, visit ABMS recommended health resources.

Schedule Regular Check-ups

You've heard the cliché before: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It gets repeated so often because it's true. Most medical conditions benefit greatly from early detection. By scheduling regular check-ups with your doctor, you can feel confident you're doing everything you can to address issues before they become dangerous. Talk to your doctor about what a healthy weight should be for you, make sure you're taking the tests appropriate to a person at your age (such as mammograms and prostate exams) and never be afraid to ask questions if you don't understand something your doctor has said.