Ignoring symptoms and avoiding needed care can lead to more serious health issues.

Take this quiz to test your knowledge!

1. How much do medical mistakes that could have been prevented (if doctors and patients had better communication) cost in the U.S. each year?

a.) $15 billion
b.) $20 billion
c.) $25 billion
d.) $78 billion

2. Every time you have a checkup, you should expect your doctor to do this:

a.) Take X-rays
b.) Prescribe medicine
c.) Order lab tests
d.) Talk to you before ordering tests or medications of any kind

3. True or False: It is always the doctor's responsibility to contact you with test and exam results.

4. True or False: The U.S. is known for its efforts to prevent, rather than to treat, conditions and diseases.

5. True or False: Your doctor is not required to know all of the prescription drugs, procedures and services that are covered by your health plan.

You may be counting on your doctor to keep you healthy, but your doctor is also counting on you to provide all the information necessary to treat your physical, emotional and mental health needs. Learning to talk openly with your doctor is an easy way to open a world of better health for you and your family.

Answers

1. A. Source: Institute of Medicine "To Err Is Human: Building a Safer Health System," 1999.

2. D. It's so important to talk to your doctor at the beginning of every appointment. Take notes before you go so you will remember all the things you would like to ask.

3. False. You should never assume that "no news is good news." If you are waiting for test results and have not received them in a timely manner, it is your responsibility to circle back and get them.

4. False. Despite its obsession with youth and beauty, ours is a nation of overweight, sedentary, unhealthy people. As such, more and more, health care in the U.S. is defined by specialty care and high-tech procedures focused on curing, rather than preventing, disease. Many experts believe we should shift the focus to primary care doctors who can serve as the first line of defense on behalf of patients they know well.

5. True. Many doctors are willing to accept insurance coverage from a multitude of providers. It would be nearly impossible for them to understand all the nuances of various health plans. If you have a question about what is and is not covered, contact the member service number found on the back of your member ID card or review your description of coverage.