Seeing a health professional about persistent pain

Living with persistent pain can be challenging, but there are people who can help you find your way around what can sometimes be a complex healthcare system.

Health professionals will play an important role in helping you understand and managing your pain. Whether it be your first appointment regarding your pain, or a follow-up for an ongoing condition, being prepared for your appointment can help you get the most out of your time with your doctor or health professional.

How to prepare for your appointment

Appointments with your doctor or health professionals should be an active process for everyone involved and guided by a clear purpose. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your appointment and get the most out of them.

• be prepared with things you may need for your visit, for example, scans or reports, lists of medications, concession or Medicare cards
• bring aids that can assist you or bring comfort such as a walking aid or a cushion
• make a list of questions to ask your health professional, including any that you may have from your last appointment
• if you have more than one issue you’d like to discuss during your appointment, try to prioritise them from most to least important so you can cover the more important matters in case you run out of time.
• share your progress or difficulties about the advice given in your last appointment
• ask about bulk billing arrangements, if available.

During your appointment

Listen carefully to what is being asked of you and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure of anything. You might ask:

• What do I need to do?
• Why is it important for me to do this?
• What can I expect?

Share what has been a challenge and what has worked well. Refer to the list of questions you prepared as a reminder of what to ask.

If you struggle to concentrate because of pain or discomfort, or you need to change positions regularly or take small brakes during longer appointments, let your doctor or health professional know. Communication is an important everyday skill for self-management of pain.

Tips for talking with your health professional

Your healthcare team will be an important support for your pain management, so it’s useful to get to know them and establish good communication with them.

Remember to:

• ask questions, don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat things or explain them another way to help you understand
• take a support person with you if you feel you need one
• ask your health professional to write things down for you, request copies or take photos of key information from your appointment, such as your care plan or exercise program
• seek a second opinion if you feel it’s necessary.