Tips for Communicating with Your Kidney Care Team

It’s easy to get confused when you’re trying to talk with your kidney care team. Sometimes they use complicated, unfamiliar terms.

But being able to communicate effectively with your kidney care team can help you have some control over your health care. One way to help you communicate effectively is to take P.A.R.T.:

Prepare. Make a list of important questions or concerns, and bring these up at the beginning of your visit.

Ask. Ask questions regarding tests, treatments, and any follow-up steps that are necessary. Make sure you understand the doctor’s answers. If you don’t, ask until you do.

Repeat. Once you have gotten the information from your doctor, repeat some of the key points. This will help you make sure you heard correctly and give the doctor the chance to correct any misunderstandings.

Take Action. When your appointment is over, know what your next steps are. Make sure you understand what you need to do and ask for help if you don’t.

You should keep in mind that there are lots of members of your kidney care team, and collectively they’re able to help answer any questions you may have.