Start with the change you want
Try putting your goal into a short sentence. It might be about weight, blood sugar or understanding a treatment you have heard about. Then ask the person treating you to help make that goal specific.
- What other options fit this goal?
- What could make you suggest a different medicine or a different kind of care?
- What would make us review or stop the plan?
Bring the health story with you
The official information for semaglutide (Wegovy) highlights personal and family thyroid cancer history, pregnancy plans, diabetes medicines and planned surgery.
It also points to eye disease linked to diabetes and past problems with the pancreas, gallbladder or serious stomach trouble.
The medicine information behind these history questions ↗Make a note of past health problems and the medicines and supplements you take. Include questions you feel awkward asking; they can go on the same page.
Ask what needs checking
The medicine information says to check blood sugar for people who have diabetes, check heart rate regularly, and check kidneys if treatment leads to fluid loss.
What the medicine information says to keep checking ↗The medical boards’ telehealth guidance says health professionals must arrange needed tests or refer for care that an online visit cannot provide.
Guidance on tests and in-person follow-up ↗Make follow-up part of the conversation
- Who reviews my progress after the first visit?
- How can I ask a new question between visits?
- Who helps if I feel unwell, and what happens when that person is unavailable?
- How do I get a copy of the plan and any test results?
- What will the next visit and any tests cost?
Before leaving, explain how you understand the plan. Have the treating professional clear up any gaps.