An explanation of a document helps you understand the words. The appointment is where you find out what they mean for you. Appointments are short, so a little preparation makes a real difference to what you take away.
Before you go
- Bring the original document, not only the explanation. Your doctor works from the report itself.
- Print or save your explanation and mark the lines you did not understand or that were flagged.
- Write your questions down, most important first. Three good questions are better than ten rushed ones.
- List your medicines and supplements, including doses, and anything that has changed since the test.
- Note your symptoms: what they are, when they started and what makes them better or worse.
- Bring earlier results if you have them. A change over time often says more than a single number.
Questions that work for almost any result
- What does this result mean for me, given my history?
- Is anything here unexpected, or is it what you were looking for?
- Does any of it need to be repeated or followed up, and when?
- What would change your advice: what should I watch for?
- Is there anything I should do, or avoid, while we wait?
- Who do I contact if I have questions afterwards?
During the appointment
- Say at the start what you most want to understand.
- If a word is unfamiliar, ask for it in plain language. Doctors expect this and most are glad to be asked.
- Repeat the plan back in your own words before you leave: “So the next step is…”
- Take notes, or bring someone who can.
If you cannot wait for an appointment
If a report mentions urgent follow-up, or you feel unwell, contact your doctor’s office straight away and say what the report says. In an emergency, call your local emergency number. An explanation from MedicDecode is never a reason to delay seeking care.
Explain another document
You can explain a different report from the explainer page, or browse all explainers by document type.