Ken: I’m not close to my family. As a matter of fact, I don’t really trust them, so I don’t want them to be a part of my health care. I know if I called them together to tell them about my wishes there would be fighting. So I told my doctor that I don’t want my family involved in my medical care. My doctor wrote this in my medical chart.

Ken: I know my doctor is busy AND I have a lot of medical problems and take so many pills. I was afraid to take up more of my doctor’s time with all my questions. Plus, I was afraid he would think that I didn’t trust him. But, he did make the time for my questions and I felt a lot better.

Dr Thomas: Yes, I was glad Ken started our visit by telling me he had questions. That way I made sure to fit them in. Sure, doctors are busy, but it is our job to inform our patients. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions so you can make the decisions that are right for you.