Your Healthcare Team

Looking for a Healthcare Team?

Finding a Dietitian

Compiled and maintained by IFFGD

Finding a Gastroenterologist

Compiled and maintained by American College of Gastroenterology (ACG)

Finding a Surgeon

Compiled and maintained by American College of Surgeons (ACS)

A Registry of GI Motility Laboratories for Patient Evaluation

Compiled and maintained by The American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society (ANMS)

Finding a Pediatric Gastroenterologist

Compiled and maintained by the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN)

Finding a Doctor Interested in Motility Disorders

Compiled and maintained by Gastroparesis Patient Association for Cures and Treatments, Inc. (G-PACT)

Finding a Psychologist who specializes in Gastroenterology

Compiled and Maintained by The Rome Foundation PsychoGastroenterology Group

healthcare team

How to Get the Most From Your Doctor Visit

Whether you are just starting treatment or your treatment is already underway, it is never too late to take an active role in your health care.

By talking with your doctor, nurses, and other people on your health care team, you can make sure you are not missing the best treatment for you.

  • Give your doctor as much information as you can. Don’t wait for your doctor to ask questions.
  • Share everything – even information that might be embarrassing. This information can help your doctor make better recommendations.
  • Ask as many questions as you need to understand your diagnosis. If you do not ask questions, your doctor may think you understand everything you are being told.
  • Write down your questions before your visit so you do not forget anything. Start by asking the most important ones and work your way down the list.
  • Make sure you really understand the information. Take notes, bring someone with you to the appointment, or ask how to get more information.
  • Remember to follow up. In some cases, you may need more information or care.

Call your doctor’s office if:

  • You have more questions.
  • Your symptoms worsen
  • You have problems with your medications
  • You have not received your test results.

You and your doctor can work together to find the best treatment for you.

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IFFGD is a nonprofit education and research organization. Our mission is to inform, assist, and support people affected by gastrointestinal disorders.

Our original content is authored specifically for IFFGD readers, in response to your questions and concerns.

If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting IFFGD with a small tax-deductible donation.

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