Quality and the cost of medical care depend more on you than on your doctor.

To become a wise medical consumer, start with three basic principles:
•    Work in partnership with your doctor.
•    Share in every medical decision.
•    Become skilled at obtaining medical care.

By following these three principles, you will gain more control over the quality and cost of your health care than you have ever had before. Work in Partnership With Your Doctor Good partnerships are based on a common goal, shared effort, and good communication. If you and your doctor can make these things happen, you will both gain from the partnership. You will get better care and your doctor will practice good medicine