The website Better Health just had a blog post on how empowered patients can find the right doctor. I thought some of the questions they listed would be appropriate for women with PPD, and so I've listed them here, with a few changes.
- How would you describe your communication style?
- If I have to call you, how long after you receive my message can I expect to hear back from you?
- What percent of your patients do you treat for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders like PPD?
- What percent of your patients are non-compliant with respect to taking their medications or otherwise following treatment recommendations?
- If I need to hospitalized, who would my doctor be? You or someone else?
- How do you feel about my bringing a friend or spouse to my visit?
- Do you encourage patients to ask you about health information they have found on the Internet?
- If I need additional information, do you have a list of recommend websites and books on PPD or related illnesses you can give me?
What questions would you add to this list?
Oh, and don't forget,I have a list of top specialists who treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders that I would encourage you to check out.
I'm wondering if you would ever include therapists on your top specialist page…or have a separate list for therapists…If so I would love to be included!
Meghan
I thought of a couple of questions for the doctor…
1.What is your opinion on taking medications for PMD during pregnancy and/or while breastfeeding?
2. Are you familiar with the different kinds of PMD? For instance, are you familiar with the differences between postpartum OCD and postpartum psychosis?
GREAT questions Sera. Just GREAT. Thanks for adding them.