No news is not always good news

Jun 22, 2009 4:13 PM

One thing I really like about my doctor is I don’t have to chase her to get the results of my tests. Each time, she calls me herself to let me know that my mammograms, lipid profile, and, once, a gall bladder scan, were no cause for concern. Her prompt calls help assure me that I’ll be informed in the future, and alerted to take needed action, in the event that a test result turns out abnormal.

Not all doctors are so reliable all of the time, according to a study out today in the June 22 Archives of Internal Medicine. Researchers reviewed the records of 5,434 randomly selected patients aged 50 to 69 from 23 primary care practices in various cities. Among the over 1,800 abnormal results recorded, researcher found apparent failures to inform patients (or to note that they had been informed) in over 7 percent (or, 1 in every 14) of cases. The authors comment that: "Failures to inform patients of abnormal test results or to document that they have been informed can harm patients and expose physicians to indefensible malpractice liability."

Previous studies have also shown that some tests are "orphaned" without either the physician or patient ever being aware of the results. So whether or not your doctor has a good track record of keeping you informed, it makes sense for consumers to do their part to make sure nothing slips through the cracks. We all need to take charge of our own medical information. These steps will help:

Write down what tests are being done, why they're being done, and when results will be ready.
Call your doctor’s office for results if you don’t hear at the expected time.
Ask for copies of all lab and imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, and sonograms.
Read the reports and ask for clarification of anything you don't understand.
Make note of any future follow-up requested in a report.
Ask that you be copied whenever a consultant or specialist writes to your primary-care physician.
Carry an up-to-date list of all medications and dosages with you at all times.

You can combine all of this, along with notes from your various doctor visits, into your very own medical record. This will come in very handy if you change physicians or need treatment when your own doctor is not available.

—Ronni Sandroff, Editor/Director, Health & Family

Read more on how to speak frankly with your doctor, and take a look at the questions to ask your doctor about tests, screenings, and scans.