What to ask about medical tests

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Every time a doctor orders a test, the patient should ask what the test will show, why the test is ordered and when results are expected, a doctor advises.

Dr. Dennis Novak, a general internist and associate dean of medical education at Drexel University College of Medicine, says if a patient doesn't understand the answers, he shouldn't be afraid to ask again.

"It's always OK to ask about stuff you didn't understand," Novak says in a statement. "If you get tests and walk out without getting your questions answered, that's a problem."

In a doctor's examination room, patients often get a lot of information that might be hard to remember later.

"You can request that your doctor take a minute to write down details like: 'The name of that test for me, please' or "Exactly what condition(s) is this test trying to uncover?' Also ask, 'Do you have any written materials that describe how I can prepare or what I should expect during this test?" or 'Can you recommend a Web site, or someone to call for more information?'"

It is also appropriate to ask about the cost of the test. Ask if your insurance covers the test, and even if it does, ask if there are any out-of-pocket costs, Novak says.