1. Let your doctor know what you want. Tell your doctor that you want to help make decisions about what to do for your health problems.

2. Do your own research. Sometimes you need to learn things on your own before you can fully understand what your doctor is saying. See “Do Your Own Research” on page 15 for some ways to get the information you need.

3. Ask “why?” Always ask “why?” before agreeing to any medical test, medication, or treatment. Asking why may help you discover another option that better meets your needs.

4. Ask about alternatives. Learn enough to understand the options your doctor thinks are feasible.

5. Consider watchful waiting. Ask your doctor if it would be risky or costly to wait a while (day, week, month) before treatment.

6. State your preferences. Tell your doctor if you prefer one option over another based on your personal desires and values.
7. Compare expectations. Tell your doctor what you are expecting from the treatment and ask if that is realistic. If appropriate, discuss side effects, pain, recovery time, long-term limitations, etc.

8. Accept responsibility. When you make shared decisions with your doctor, both of you must accept the responsibility for the outcomes.

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