5 Questions Every Patient Should Ask Before Leaving the Appointment

Don’t let another appointment end with unanswered questions. These five strategic questions ensure you leave with clarity and a concrete plan forward.

1. “What should I do if my symptoms worsen before our next appointment?”

This question provides you with a safety net and shows you’re thinking ahead. It often reveals red flags to watch for that doctors forget to mention.

2. “How will we know if this treatment is working?”

Establishes clear success metrics and timelines. Without this, you’re left guessing whether you’re improving or need to change course.

3. “What’s the most important thing for me to focus on before we meet again?”

Helps prioritize your energy and gives you a clear action item that matters most to your care team.

4. “Are there any interactions or side effects I should watch for?”

Demonstrates you’re an engaged patient who takes responsibility for monitoring your health between visits.

5. “When should I be concerned enough to contact you directly?”

Creates clear boundaries about when to reach out, preventing both under-communication and unnecessary worry.

Before You Leave: Repeat back the key points to ensure you understood correctly. Most medical errors happen due to miscommunication.