The Choosing Wisely® in North Carolina initiative aims to reduce health care waste by helping patients make smart and effective health care choices.

Our results have seen significant reductions in the unnecessary use of:

1. Antibiotics
2. Pap tests
3. Scans for osteoporosis

Taking the best care of yourself and your family includes talking with your doctor about necessary tests and treatments. Based on your situation, some tests or treatments may not be needed.

Talking with your doctor is important for your current and future health concerns. Here are five questions to ask your doctor that might help you:

• Do I really need this test or procedure?
• What are the risks?
• Are there simpler, safer options?
• What happens if I don’t do anything?
• How much does it cost?

Click here to download our checklist PDF. Print it off and take it with you to your next doctor’s appointment.

The following tips on talking with your doctor are from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)

• Write down list of questions and concerns before appointment
• Consider bringing a close friend or family member with you
• Take notes about what the doctor says or ask the friend/family member to do this for you
• Learn how to access your medical records so you can keep track of test results, diagnoses, treatment plans, medicines and prepare you for the next visit
• Ask for the doctor’s contact information and their preferred method of communication
• Remember that nurses and pharmacists are good sources of information