Healthy aging expert and Extension associate professor Sharon Johnson says to heed the advice of the The Ask Me 3® program when you visit your doctor.
Sharon also suggests that you make a list of your health concerns to discuss during your appointment with the most important ones first to be absolutely sure they get addressed.
It’s also helpful to take a friend or family member with you to your doctor visit for an extra pair of ears.
The Ask Me 3® Program
Navigating the healthcare system and understanding medical information can be challenging, especially for older adults. However, the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) has developed a simple yet powerful tool to help patients of all ages, particularly seniors, become more engaged and informed about their health care. The Ask Me 3® program is designed to encourage patients and their families to ask three critical questions during every healthcare interaction to better understand their health conditions and what they need to do to stay healthy.
The Three Essential Questions
- What is my main problem? This question helps clarify the diagnosis or the main health issue you’re facing. Understanding your main health problem is the first step toward managing your health effectively.
- What do I need to do? This question seeks to find out the recommended course of action or treatment. It could involve medication, lifestyle changes, or other interventions. Knowing exactly what you need to do allows you to take active steps towards improving your health.
- Why is it important for me to do this? Understanding the importance of the recommended actions helps motivate you to follow through with the treatment plan. It connects the dots between the action and the positive impact on your health.
Why Ask Me 3® is Vital for Older Adults
For older adults, staying informed and actively participating in health care decisions is crucial for managing chronic conditions, preventing complications, and maintaining a good quality of life. The Ask Me 3® program empowers seniors by simplifying medical information, making it easier to understand and act upon. It encourages a dialogue between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring that health instructions are clear and actionable.
How to Utilize Ask Me 3®
- Before your appointment, think about the three questions and consider any specific concerns you might have about your health condition.
- During your healthcare visit, don’t hesitate to ask the three questions. If something is not clear, ask for further clarification until you fully understand the answers.
- After the visit, write down the answers or ask your healthcare provider to write them down for you. This can help you remember what was discussed and what steps you need to take next.
Encouragement for Older Adults
We encourage all older adults to embrace the Ask Me 3® program as a tool for taking control of their health. By asking these three questions, you can gain a clearer understanding of your health conditions and what you can do to stay healthy. Remember, your healthcare providers are there to help you, and asking questions is a key part of getting the care you need.
The Ask Me 3® program is not just a set of questions; it’s a pathway to better health literacy, improved communication with healthcare providers, and ultimately, better health outcomes. So, at your next healthcare visit, remember to Ask Me 3® and take an active role in your health care.