Having a comfortable relationship with your doctor is critical. An at-ease patient is more likely to divulge personal medical information, which is essential in getting proper care. Also, building a long-term relationship with your physician will help her or him better understand your medical history and wellness requirements.

Angie’s List offers some tips to strengthen your relationship with your doctor:

1. Interview your doctor: Your physician is working for you. Ask questions to learn more about your doctor, like how he or she would treat a preexisting condition, handles emergencies during off hours, and her or his education and residency background. Is the doctor standing by the door with one hand on the handle while you are asking these questions, or is he or she willing to sit down with you and answer your inquiries?
2. Schedule a regular checkup: The easiest way to build a relationship with someone is to see him or her regularly. Scheduling a yearly exam – or more, depending on your medical condition – is important to maintaining a familiar relationship with your doctor and in monitoring your evolving health.
3. Ask questions about your health: Your doc might throw some big words around when discussing your health, so don’t settle for being in the dark if you don’t understand the lingo. It’s your body. Make sure you have all the facts and don’t be afraid to seek a second – or even third, or fourth – opinion. Also, if you have questions coming into the exam, write them down so you don’t forget what you want to ask.
4. Know your vitals: Keep track of things like your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, blood pressure, weight and other vital statistics. Knowing this information, where you are and where you need to be, is vital itself.
5. Research your doctor: The days of picking a name out of a phone book are gone. There is a variety of resources available for consumers to make informed decisions before choosing a new physician.