To benefit fully from heath care for ourselves or our loved ones, we must engage in our care.
Be a Prepared Patient resources from the Center for Advancing Health (CFAH) are designed to help you not only find good health care but also make the most of it.
CFAH has advocated for the participation of people in their health care since 1992. We accept no advertising or corporate sponsors.
CFAH creates, reviews and collects websites, blogs, patient stories and resources to help you:
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How can I get the most out of my doctor’s appointment?
What questions should I ask my doctor?
What do I need to know about medical tests?
Where can I learn more about the test I’m getting?
How do I tell my doctor what is wrong with me?
How do I use doctor rating websites?
When should I go to the doctor?
When should I go to the emergency department?
Where should I go if I can’t get a doctor’s appointment?
When should I call the doctor if I have a chronic condition?
Do I need a yearly checkup or physical?
How much will my health care cost?
What screening tests are recommended?
Should I get a second opinion?
How do I tell my doctor I want a second opinion?
For what kinds of conditions is watchful waiting possible?
Where can I find treatment informtion on my condition?
How do I get a copy of my medical records?
How do I share my medical records with multiple doctors?
What is a personal health record?
Does my emploer have to give me paid sick leave?
What steps should I take if I need time off from work because of my illness?
Are there laws to protect my job if I have an illness?