@sunnyflower, I appreciate what you wrote about medical staff complaining about what they considered a "patient's laundry list" of symptoms at office visits. When I received 3 diagnoses for chronic health issues within the last year, I first started researching all I could learn about each and how to better manage them. I also typed questions for each specialist, and asked them to read them at the visits. I didn't share a list of a bazillion symptoms or questions about what I could do better or watch for but one doc in particular, resented my request, saying "I have a clinic full of patients to see and can't address each item on this sheet". The 6 items were brief; more to keep me on track and to get answers because otherwise, I'm always afraid I'll leave without remembering what I most needed help with. I was very hurt by her response because she had been one of my most favorite docs until that day.

I think it wonderful that many patients on the Connect forums write about how their specialsts work as a "team" and individually take the time to discuss procedures, recommendations and answer questions. While we are all acutely aware that physicians have heavy work loads and are limited in the time they can allow each patient, I also know how 'thin skinned" some can be and either feel "threatened" or "irritated" if a "difficult patient" questions a med or procedure and about what effects it may have.

Knowledge is power and I've learned that the patient bears a great responsibility in learning how to manage and become a patient advocate. I'm also learning, at least with mine, that docs treating older patients with multiple health issues do not want to discuss anything about the effects of treatment for one malady may adversely another chronic condition. I hope sharing my experience is helpful to others and I appreciate what you cautioned.