Make information clearer

Understand my health

You deserve health information you can understand and use. These steps can help you prepare, ask questions and leave with a clearer plan.

Before a visit

  1. Write down the main reason for your visit and the questions you want answered.
  2. Bring an up-to-date list of medicines, vitamins and supplements.
  3. Bring insurance information and ask ahead about forms, costs or records you may need.

During a visit

  1. Ask the care team to use plain language and explain unfamiliar words.
  2. Take notes or ask whether you may bring a trusted person to help listen.
  3. Repeat the plan in your own words and ask the care team to correct anything you misunderstood.

Before you leave

  1. Make sure you know what to do next, when to do it and who to call with questions.
  2. Ask about warning signs and what kind of help to seek if they occur.
  3. Request written instructions you can review later.

Open printable health tools

This information is educational and is not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health care professional.