Good Questions for Your Good Health

As a patient, every time you talk with a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, you are encouraged to use the “Ask Me 3” questions to better understand your health.

These 3 questions are:

You can ask these 3 questions when you see your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, when you prepare for a medical test or procedure, or when you get your medicine. If you ask these questions, and you still don’t understand the treatment you are receiving, let your healthcare provider know you need more information. Don’t be afraid to ask for an explanation until you understand the answer. The “Ask Me 3” questions are designed to help you take better care of your health. (Visit www.Askme3.org)

Everyone wants help with health information. You are not alone if you find things confusing at times. Asking questions helps you understand how to stay well or to get better. Your healthcare team wants to know how to help you best, and even if you are nervous about asking questions, your doctor wants you to know all you can about your condition, why this is important for your health, and what steps you need to take to keep your condition under control.

The “Ask Me 3” questions can help you to
better understand how to:

• Take care of your health
• Prepare for medical tests
• Take your medicines the right way.

You don’t need to feel rushed or embarrassed if you don’t understand something. Ask your nurse or doctor again. Also remember that it is very important for each doctor you are seeing to know all the medicines you are taking so that you can stay healthy. You can ask a friend or family member to ask questions on your behalf if you are unable to ask for yourself. Your healthcare team cares about you, and they want to be able to provide you with the answers that will help you get healthy and stay healthy.