You’re not “just a patient” — you’re part of your healthcare team. Doctors, nurses, and parents have expertise, but you’re the expert on you.
Teens want to have a voice in conversations about their body and healthcare journey. If you’re a youth who wants to feel more confident, informed and in control of your care, speaking up can help. Sharing how you feel with your healthcare team helps make sure your care fits you and your needs.
Your Voice is Important
- You deserve to understand what’s happening with your health.
- Doctors want your input, they can’t know what it feels like unless you tell them.
- Being involved builds trust and helps make care plans that work for you.
- You know yourself best, what feels right, what hurts, what’s scary, what helps and that’s all information your healthcare team needs.
- When you share your thoughts, it helps them make better plans with you, not for you.
- Speaking up helps you feel more in control, reduces stress, and makes sure your care matches what you actually need.
How to Prepare Before Your Appointment
- Ask to have a few minutes alone with your doctor if you’d like to talk privately.
- Decide beforehand if bringing a friend, sibling, or parent would make you more comfortable.
- Keep a symptom journal or notes in your phone: “What hurts, when it happens, what helps.”It’s easier to explain how you feel when you have it written down.
- Write down 2–3 questions ahead of time (or use the notes app on your phone).
Asking Questions and Speaking Up
- “Can you explain that in a way I’ll understand?”
- “I’m nervous about ___ can we talk about it first?”
- “Can I have a few minutes to think before deciding?”
- “I want to know what my options are.”
- “What are the side effects of this medicine?”
- “Is there anything I can do at home to feel better?”
After your appointment
- Review what was discussed and make notes of things you don’t understand yet.
- Schedule a follow-up if you still have questions.
- Share updates with a parent, friend, or support person if it helps you remember important information.
Taking the lead in your healthcare doesn’t mean you have to do it perfectly. Even asking one question or sharing one concern is a big step toward feeling more in control and confident. You deserve to understand what’s happening with your body and to be part of every decision. Next time you have an appointment, try asking one question, big or small. That’s a step toward taking the lead in your care.