All learning resources · Evidence and editorial policy
Before the appointment
Keep a private list of your goals, symptom timeline, medicines, supplements, allergies, and relevant records for your healthcare professional. Do not upload those details to this website or send them through its contact form. Choose a few priority questions rather than expecting one short appointment to answer everything.
What problem are we trying to address?
Ask what diagnosis or clinical goal is being evaluated, what other explanations should be considered, and whether further assessment is needed. What would improvement look like in daily life? How will the clinician distinguish a meaningful change from normal variation?
What exact product and use are you discussing?
Ask for the exact product name, proposed indication, and whether it is FDA approved for that use, used off label, compounded, or investigational. If compounding is proposed, ask why an approved product cannot meet the medical need and who prepares the medicine. Do not treat a shared ingredient name as proof that products are interchangeable.
What evidence applies to someone like me?
Ask whether the evidence is in people with the same condition and uses the same formulation and route. What outcome was measured? How large was the improvement compared with the alternative? How long did follow-up last? Ask which important questions remain unanswered.
What alternatives should I understand?
Ask about established treatments, appropriate lifestyle support, rehabilitation or specialist care where relevant, and the option of not starting the proposed intervention. What are the expected benefits and drawbacks of each? A coaching conversation can help organize questions but cannot choose a medical treatment for you.
What risks and monitoring need a plan?
Ask which adverse effects, contraindications, interactions, and uncertainties matter in your circumstances. Who provides follow-up? Which symptoms require prompt medical attention, whom should you contact, and what should happen outside office hours? Ask the clinician to provide individualized instructions rather than relying on this general guide.
What will the whole process cost?
Ask about appointments, product cost, testing, follow-up, insurance coverage, and cancellation or refund terms. How will benefit be reassessed, and what happens if the treatment is ineffective or not tolerated? Do not judge an offer only by a monthly payment.
Before you leave
Repeat the plan back in your own words. Ask for written information and time to consider unresolved questions. Do not start, stop, or change treatment based on this guide. Decisions and individualized instructions belong with an appropriately licensed healthcare professional.