Talking To Your Provider
Medical imaging may be needed to help diagnose a symptom you are having, or to help monitor your disease, or to assess whether you are responding to treatment. You should understand why you are getting a test and what information your medical provider is hoping to learn. Sometimes tests are suggested when they are not necessary, and will not help you. You are your best advocate. These videos provide suggestions for how to have a discussion with your doctor or other medical provider.

Doctor Discussion Part 1

Medical imaging has potential risks and potential benefits. In this video, Dr. Solberg and Dr. Smith-Bindman share tips on talking with your provider about getting only the tests you need.

 

 

Doctor Discussion Part 2

How can patients make sure they receive the lowest radiation dose possible when being imaged? Dr. Solberg and Dr. Smith-Bindman discuss some ideas about how to begin the conversation with your providers.

 

 

How do I talk with my provider about my concerns about radiation risk?

  • It is important that you talk with your provider. Discuss any questions you may have with your referring doctor before you go in for your test. Its always helpful to write down questions ahead of time. Some helpful questions include:
    • Why do you want me to get this test?
    • What are you expecting it will show?
    • How will this test change what happens to me?
    • Do I need to get this test now?
    • What are the potential harms of the test?
    • If you want to do a test that uses ionizing radiation (like an x-ray or CT scan), is there an alternate test that might give the same information (like ultrasound or MRI) that does not use radiation?
  • Ask for clarification if you have trouble understanding your doctor. If your provider does not mention something that you believe to be relevant, feel free to mention it. While some physicians are careful about radiation expsure, some physicians may not know this is important to you. Creating a list of topics or questions that you want to discuss with your doctor prior to your appointment will ensure that you discuss everything that you are curious about. If anything comes to mind after your appointment, you should feel free to call their office and ask about how to set up a phone conversation with them. Your doctor is there to make sure that you are prepared and comfortable for your exam and by being an active part of the conversation with them, you can ensure that you receive the care and answers you need.

What should I tell my provider before having a CT scan?

  • Be sure to talk to your doctor about any previous tests you have had that used radiation, such as angiograms, CT (CAT) scans, or Flouroscopy. If you have had a recent exam for the same reason, they will wnat to know this.