An expert shared the best questions to ask your GP if you feel you’re being dismissed (Image: Getty)
Brits have been urged to pose three particular questions to their GP if they believe their medical worries are being “dismissed”. An NHS doctor has revealed there are some straightforward measures we can all adopt to guarantee we feel adequately listened to.
Doctor Karan Rajan, widely recognised as Dr Raj on TikTok, stressed the importance of patients standing up for themselves if they sense their symptoms are being disregarded.
He advised his more than five million followers: “If you feel that your doctor ignores your concerns and undermines your symptoms, here is how to advocate for your health.”
Dr Raj encouraged asking even those questions that might seem uncomfortable, stating: “Ask questions, even the awkward ones.”
He clarified that while doctors receive training in critical thinking, they frequently work on autopilot, meaning that raising questions can encourage them to examine your concerns more carefully.
Dr Raj suggested three specific questions to ask your GP:
- What else could this be?
- Are there any tests we haven’t done yet?
- Can you explain why you think this is normal for me?
Beyond raising these questions, he recommended four additional tactics to ensure your health concerns receive proper attention.
Keep a symptom log
Dr Raj recommended keeping a detailed account of all symptoms experienced to share with your GP. “Keep a comprehensive record of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, what alleviates or exacerbates them, and how they affect your daily life,” he advised.
“Pro tip – use precise language, for instance, instead of saying ‘I’m tired’, say ‘I feel as if I’ve been hit by a lorry at 2pm every afternoon and it’s causing me to miss work deadlines.”
Ask for a referral
If you feel your concerns aren’t being addressed, you should request a referral to a specialist. Dr Raj suggested: “If your doctor is puzzled or worse, dismissive, ask for a referral to a specialist.
“Specialists possess more in-depth knowledge in specific areas. For example, persistent muscle pain could be indicative of fibromyalgia.
“That severe menstrual cramp could be endometriosis. Pro tip – frame it as curiosity, not confrontation. For instance, ‘I would feel more at ease ruling out X. Can we investigate this with a specialist?'”
Bring back up
He also advised bringing a trusted friend or family member to your appointments if you feel your concerns aren’t being heard. “Having a reliable friend or family member present at your appointment can make a significant difference,” said Dr Raj.
“They can take notes as follow-up questions and back you up if you feel dismissed.”
Know your rights
Dr Raj also recommended seeking a second opinion or reaching out to patient advocacy groups if necessary. He added, “In most countries you’re entitled to a second opinion and access to your medical records, use these rights liberally.”
As an additional tip, he mentioned: “Pro tip – if you’re dealing with a complex or chronic condition, consider consulting patient advocacy groups or online communities for advice.”
