Health Tip: Communicating With a Loved One's Doctor

(HealthDay News) -- Part of a caregiver's responsibilities include communicating with your charge's doctors, and knowing how and when to ask the right questions.

The American Heart Association offers these guidelines for caregivers:

Explain to the doctor your role as caregiver, and that you need to be included in important communication about the patient.Educate yourself about the details of your loved one's condition.Write down information about behaviors you have noticed, such as your loved one's sleeping habits, eating habits and emotions.Take your time and think through any decisions about your loved one. If possible, make sure the doctor offers you enough time to consider the options. Consider scheduling a consultation appointment.Make a list of questions and topics for discussion during appointments.Appreciate the time your doctor takes, and understand that he or she may not have an immediate answer to all of your questions.