Keep the care plan in plain words

Leave with a next step in words.

Make a note of what was explained, what comes next, and who can answer another question.

FDA is short for the Food and Drug Administration, which reviews medicines in the US.

The short answer

Leave with the next step in words you can repeat. If part of the answer is unclear, keep it as an open question.

Make the follow-up concrete

What was discussed

Write below, or use paper. Copy anything worth keeping; the page does not save your notes.

The concern being assessedThe next step, in my wordsWho can answer a question and how to reach themWhen follow-up was discussedWhat needs an in-person visit or a testWhat remains undecided

Ask the health professional to write down the next step and explain anything that is unclear.

The short answer

The medical boards’ guidance calls for arranging an exam or test when proper assessment requires one.

Keep room for another question

Before I close the conversation

I can say what the next step is for.
I know which answers are still pending.
I have asked how to raise a new concern.
I have asked what happens if the care plan changes.
I have a copy of the agreed explanation.

If you have more questions after reading the care plan, write them beside the part you want explained. Bring that note to the next conversation.

Reporting is separate from getting care

FDA MedWatchPatients can report a medicine problem.Open the evidence note

The FDA accepts patient reports of medicine problems through its free MedWatch programme.

A report alone does not establish that a medicine caused the event.

Use MedWatch to report a medicine problem to the FDA. Contact your health professional for care and answers to your questions.

Read about MedWatch