Healthcare Team Communication Tips
- Prepare a list of questions and organize important information about the problem in advance
- Possible side effects?
- What changes or symptoms should I watch out for?
- What tests will need to be done and what are they looking for?
- How often do I need to receive treatment?
- What are the risks?
- Can you suggest resources where I can learn more about this treatment?
- What else do I need to know?
- Maintain a log of all healthcare including:
- Names, contacts, phone numbers
- Dates
- Information received from the healthcare team
- Experiences with treatment to recount to providers
- Anything related to your treatment
- Bring someone with you to any appointments
- Be persistent and assertive – you are in charge of your care
- Always ask for clarification if you are confused – never assume anything
- Ask for important instructions in writing
Insurance Company Communication Tips
- Communicate clearly and with confidence.
- If a request has been denied, don’t give up. Be persistent. Ask to speak with a supervisor if you aren’t satisfied with the results of the conversation.
- Know the benefits you are entitled to – this is your responsibility. Ask your representative to explain anything you don’t understand.
- Keep a log of all communications including dates, times and names. Take notes during any communication.
- If communication occurred over the phone, always follow up in writing. Include identify information as well as dates, time, names, and what you were told.
- Follow the procedures for submitting claims, filing appeals or requesting prior authorization to avoid any delays.