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Talking to a doctor
How to talk to medical professionals.
It can be hard to have all your worries answered during a medical visit. Often you feel nervous and embarrassed when asking for advice on sexual things or talking about your feelings and emotions. Before visiting a doctor, counsellor, nurse or any medical professional, think about what you want to ask them and if you’re very nervous, write down your questions so you don’t forget anything important.
Doctor - patient confidentiality is protected by law if you are over 16. Find out more about confidentiality here.
What to ask the doctor or clinic before visiting:
- Will my information be confidential? Find out about confidentiality here.
- Can I visit without my parents knowing?
- Do I have to pay for the check up?
- Read the tips on asking for help here.
What to do during the visit:
- Try not to be embarrassed, remember the doctor or nurse has treated many other people for the same problems.
- Explain your symptoms clearly and in detail.
- If you don’t understand what the doctor says, ask him/her to explain their diagnosis more simply.
- Ask how serious the problem is, if you can pass it on to other people and how to prevent this from happening again.
- If you are given a prescription: ask what the medicine does, if there are side effects and what to do if your symptoms don’t go away.
- If you’re interested in complementary medicine or treatments ask what alternatives are available.
- If you’re very nervous about the visit, ask a friend or family member to come with you.
Medical cards
Medical cards allow you to access GP services, community health services, dental services, prescription medicine costs, hospital care and other benefits for free.
