Following your doctor's advice

To get 100 percent benefit, make sure you understand and can use your doctor's advice when you get home.

� Ask for written instructions

Have your doctor list the main points as you discuss them. Or request brochures or other published information.

� Know your prescription

Ask why this drug is best. Find out what you can expect from it, including side effects and how to take it correctly.

� Expect explanations

Be sure you know why a test is ordered, what it will involve, what the risks are, and how and when you'll learn results.

� Repeat what you hear

This process allows your doctor to identify any instructions that aren't clear.

� Solve problems together

If you don't think it's realistic to follow your doctor's recom-mendations, speak up. For example, financial restraints might keep you from buying a certain medication. If you tell your doctor, he or she may know of a less expensive generic medication that will work just as well.