# Preparation - What is the primary question/problem I want addressed? - What is my desired outcome? - What are the symptoms? - Timeline: when did it start? When did significant things happen? - Are there any test results I should bring to the doctor’s attention? - Are there related appointments or opinions? Review those. Generate questions. - Are there any treatments or medications that I’ve heard of that I want the doctor to comment on? # Questions ## General - What are your thoughts on the x-ray/ultrasound/test results? - What else could it be and why did you rule those things out? - If I were a friend or family member, what would you recommend? ## Surgery - How long will it take? - Do I need someone to drive me home? - What are the risks? - Is the surgery optional? What if I do nothing? - What type of anesthesia will be used? - How likely is it to be successful? - Are there non surgical options? - Are there any restrictions after the surgery and for how long? - What does recovery look like? ## Medication - Is it necessary? What if I don’t take it? - What alternative medications did you consider and why did you pick this one? - What are the risks? ## Tests - Is it necessary? What will we learn that we don’t already know?