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Do you ever feel too nervous or embarrassed to ask your healthcare provider questions? Sometimes we may think our question is too silly or dumb – other times we may feel too overwhelmed after a diagnosis to speak up. 

For today’s episode, I’m joined by my husband, Dr. Yona Saperstein (back by popular demand!). We discuss the importance of asking questions and give helpful tips to help remember the information given to us at these appointments. 

This week on All About Audiology: 

* 2:03 – A listener of the podcast shared a story of when her son was an infant and diagnosed with unilateral hearing loss. For a few days, she didn’t fully understand what the diagnosis meant. If you are unfamiliar with the terms your doctor is using – ask! It can completely change your outlook on a situation. 

* 5:44 – Even doctors have questions! Yona and his colleagues regularly ask each other for advice. This helps them to provide the best care possible for all of their patients.

* 11:44 – It’s always important to confirm that you are taking medication correctly. Don’t be afraid to contact your doctor if you have forgotten the advice they have given you, or are unclear on the directions.

* 17:16 – Bringing a list of questions with you to an appointment isn’t annoying! This will only help your doctor make sure they are providing you with the answers you need during your visit.

* 23:36 – When a patient asked for Yona’s advice about having her children vaccinated, he explained that there is ample data showing that vaccines have been the number one life saver in the history of medicine.

* 26:25 – Vaccines do not cause Autism. This theory has been disproven multiple times. If you have questions about what information to trust or who to listen to, the best thing to do is speak with a trusted healthcare provider. 

* 36:00 – Healthcare providers are the experts in their field, and parents are the experts on their children. When we respect one another’s expertise, then we become a team. Two way communication is key.

* 37:51 – if you aren’t comfortable with a healthcare provider , you have every right as a patient and parent to get a second opinion or switch doctors. 

* 42:46 – Hearing From Both Sides  is a unique program for parents and professionals to come together to share experiences, concerns and suggestions. There will be 3 Zoom discussions, where many of these issues will be discussed in depth. If you are interested, reach out on the Facebook group, the Instagram page, or send a message through the website. 

For more resources and research visit:

All About Audiology Website

www.allaboutaudiology.com

All About Audiology Facebook group 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/470583160143167/about

AllAbout Audiology Instagram

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