Questions for your doctor
Questions for your doctor
This section is about the questions worth asking your own doctor. It collects questions for different situations along with honest, general answers: why ask and what usually happens next. There are no individual consultations here — only a doctor who examines you can answer questions about your health. Some practical details describe how things work in Russia; arrangements differ elsewhere.
Appointments are short. Three questions written down in advance are often more useful than an hour of searching online afterwards.
How this section works: it helps you prepare for a conversation with your doctor. There are no specialists answering questions on this site, no consultations and no contact form.
Before the appointment
What should I bring to the appointment?
Your health insurance documents (in Russia, the OMS policy) and ID, a list of the medicines and supplements you take, and results of previous tests and discharge summaries. It helps to write down your symptoms: when they started, how they change, what makes them better or worse.
How do I describe my problem briefly?
Start with the main point: what is bothering you, for how long and what has changed. The doctor will ask for details. If you are nervous, read from notes on your phone — that is perfectly fine.
Should I tell the doctor about supplements and herbal remedies?
Yes. Supplements and herbal products can interact with medicines. Your doctor needs to know about everything you take.
Can I bring a relative with me?
It is often helpful: a second person can help you remember explanations and ask a question you forgot. Check the rules of the particular facility in advance.
When tests or treatment are prescribed
What should I ask about a test I've been referred for?
Why it is needed, what will change depending on the result, whether you need to prepare and when to expect the results. If the result will not affect any decisions, that is worth discussing too.
What should I ask about a prescribed medicine?
What it is for, how and how much to take, what side effects are possible, whether it is compatible with what you already take, and what to do if you miss a dose.
Are there other options?
This is a normal question. Ask about the benefits and risks of different options, including what happens if you do nothing.
Can I get a second opinion?
Yes, especially before serious decisions. Bring your medical records and test results so the other doctor can see the full picture.
Where to go
Which doctor should I see if I don't know what's wrong?
The first point of contact is a general practitioner — in Russia, at the clinic you are registered with. They will assess the situation and refer you to a specialist if needed.
Can I book a specialist directly?
In Russia this depends on the clinic and region. Under OMS, a referral to a specialist often comes from the general practitioner; check the rules at the reception. Other health systems have their own rules.
Where can I have a preventive check-up?
In Russia, free of charge under the OMS policy at the clinic you are registered with. You can book there or through Gosuslugi, the public services portal, if your region supports it.
When should I call an ambulance instead of going to a clinic?
If there are signs of a life-threatening condition — see the box below. Call 112, or 103 from a mobile phone in Russia; if in doubt, it is better to call than to wait.
Related sections
- Prevention
Preventive check-ups in Russia's state health insurance (OMS) system and how to get the most from them. WHO guidance for adults.
- Topics and conditions
A map of the reference by topic: heart and circulation, nutrition, sleep and stress, infections and hygiene. Plus the article catalogue.
- Medical glossary
Plain-language definitions of terms from research, prevention, lab tests and medicine leaflets.
Sources
- Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. Procedure for the preventive medical examination and dispanserizatsiya (health check-up)
- Single emergency number 112; ambulance service 103 (Russia)
Information is current as of the preparation date. The Russian check-up schedule, recommendations from health organisations and medicine registration rules may change — check current arrangements with your clinic and official sources.