How to Work With Your Doctor to Get the Best Care

Ask questions.

Write down all your questions before each visit.

Take a list of questions with you when you see your doctor. Then ask your questions.

Give information. Tell your doctor what your symptoms have been since your last visit. Be honest. Provide peak flow meter readings, if you have them. Talk about how and when you take your medicines.

Talk about problems or concerns you have about your medicines.

Use the checklist of treatment goals given in the Asthma Goals. Talk with your doctor about the goals being met and those not being met. State what you expect at each visit.

Tell your doctor what you want from the visit. You may simply want some questions answered. Or you might want a change in your medicine. Follow directions. Write down what you are supposed to do. Repeat back what you think your doctor wants you to do. This helps you to be sure that you know what you are supposed to do.

Take your medicine as your doctor tells you. Tell your doctor when you have trouble doing what he or she asks.

Keep your appointments. Have a way to remind yourself to keep your appointments. Put a note on the refrigerator, your dresser, or some other place. If you cannot keep your appointment, call and change it. With time, you and your doctor will find the care that works best for you. You'll be in control of your asthma!

Ask questions. Follow directions. Remind yourself to keep your appointments. On the worksheet write your questions for your next doctor's visit.

Helpful Phone numbers

Your doctor's office phone number:

Your doctor's after-hours phone number:

Emergency phone number:

Other Helpful Phone Numbers For You:

Phone Number of the Closest Urgent Care Clinic/ Hospital when travelling:

These groups provide information and materials.

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1-800-822-2762

American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (for pamphlets or a list of board-certiji'ed doctors in your area) 1-800-842-7777

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America 1-800-727-8462

National Allergy and Asthma Network/Mothers of Asthmatics 1-800-878-4403

National Jewish Medical and Research Center Information Service (Lung Line) 1-800-222-5864

For further information, contact National Asthma Education and Prevention Program 1-301-251-1222