How well you communicate with your physician can make a big difference in how smoothly a visit goes—and how well it addresses your health problem.

Here are some things you can do to be sure you’re well prepared.

Educate yourself. Doctors shouldn’t be your only source of medical information. Your pharmacist, reputable patient support groups, and national medical organizations can provide up-to-date information. A good caregiver will not mind if you bring in an article from a magazine or Web site to discuss. Their real frustration is with the patient who discounts their advice without discussing it.

Before your appointment, write down your symptoms. If you’ve been having headaches, how long do they last? Where does it hurt? Be specific. For your initial session, bring in all your medications, including over-the-counter remedies. Write a letter. If your problems are complicated, write your doctor a letter beforehand that briefly outlines your concerns. This way, she can read it at her leisure, rather than listening to a lengthy list of ailments while she has a full waiting room.

Schedule several visits if you will need extra time. Don’t try to cram a half-dozen serious problems into one twenty-minute visit. Let the doctor know the array of concerns, and then decide which can wait. Take notes. If the explanation is complex, have the doctor write it down for you. Patients often end up being non-compliant out of ignorance—they really didn’t understand and were too embarrassed to ask.

Bring a friend. If you’re really sick, bring someone with you. Your companion can remember important information that could be missed.

Discuss your medical history. Don’t be reluctant to divulge something because you’re concerned about what the doctor will think. Share information, no matter how inconsequential it may appear—a grandmother who died of a stroke or a family history of depression. It could provide valuable clues about what’s ailing you.

Be honest. Don’t feel you need to please the doctor or hide things. Even if you’re uncomfortable admitting to unhealthy behaviors, it’s imperative to tell your doctor the truth. And if a doctor suggests something that would be hard for you to do, let him know so you can work out other arrangements.

Challenge nicely. If you disagree with what your doctor is prescribing, say something like, “Could you let me in on your thinking about this?” That opens the door without putting the doctor on the defensive.

Don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion. Any physician who has the interest of the patient in mind should welcome a second opinion to ensure the right recommendation.

When all else fails, switch. If your current doctor isn’t meeting your expectations, express your concerns. If no improvements follow, find another doctor.