Communicating with doctors and health professionals can be hard, particularly if you have just received a cancer diagnosis. You may be overwhelmed with information that you don’t understand and feel helpless about how to ask the right questions.
Find out how to best communicate with your doctors through our Communicating with Doctors education videos. Learn key skills to better communicate with doctors and other health professionals when discussing a cancer diagnosis, treatment and on-going health concerns.
This free, four-part video series helps patients, families, and carers to learn to:
- talk to your doctor and ask the right questions and get answers you understand,
- put forward your own needs, concerns, and preferences with your healthcare team,
- be confident about your healthcare rights,
- actively participate during medical appointments,
- guide your healthcare professionals to provide care that meets your needs.
Studies show that one of the most common patient complaints in healthcare relates to communication breakdown. We find this is the main reason for 30% of enquiries to our 13 11 20 cancer information and support line each year.
Topic 1: Advocate for yourself
During this video we will teach you strategies to help you take an active role in your healthcare and to confidently communicate your own needs with your doctors. Learn 5 strategies to help you advocate for yourself:
- find ways to learn more about your cancer
- make informed decisions about your treatment
- actively participate in discussions about your cancer care
- communicate your emotions and concerns
- assert your rights
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Topic 2: Make the most of your appointments
People who actively engage during their appointments and ask questions are more likely to receive care that suits their values and preferences. Gain tips on how to:
- prepare for your appointment
- get more out of your discussions with your doctors
- leave your appointment with the information and support you need
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Topic 3: Sharing your emotions
A cancer diagnosis can bring on a lot of emotions. Sharing feelings with your doctor enables them to consider your emotional needs when planning your treatment. In this video you will find ways to:
- talk to your doctor when you don’t feel they are listening
- feel more in control of your emotions
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Topic 4: Partnering with your doctors
Working with your doctor to find the best treatment and cancer care plan for you can result in more positive outcomes. In this video we will show you:
- that by partnering with your doctor you will feel more in control of your situation
- ways to partner with your doctors to get the best cancer care
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