How do I know if a referred Alzheimer’s specialist is patient centered?

Ask the referrer if the doctor encourages questions. The doctors who are strongly patient-centered are more likely to explain treatment options and possible side effects. The best doctors will gladly answer all your questions at any time without exasperation or impatience and will encourage you to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease.

 A doctor who enjoys giving you full and educational explanations is likely to treat you and your loved one with respect. These best doctors encourage their patients to be well informed and to ask questions. In turn, the most knowledgeable patients are usually the most satisfied with their doctors and their care.

Asking a referrer if a doctor involved both the caregiver and the patient in discussions is another way to determine how compassionate and patient centered the doctor is. You want a doctor who values the caregiver’s role while respecting the Alzheimer’s patient as a unique individual.

Good indicators of this are the doctor looking at both the caregiver and patient while explaining something, asking both for questions, and encouraging the caregiver to take notes or make tape recordings of the visit.

Find out more about this book: The 10 Best Questions for Living with Alzheimer's: The Script You Need to G...

Buy Book