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It is quite common to misinterpret or feel misunderstood by your health professional. Communication in healthcare can be challenging when emotions, stress, or complex medical issues are involved.  

If you don鈥檛 feel comfortable with your health professional or don鈥檛 understand the advice, then you have options. Here are a few things that might help.  

Reflect on why you feel this way

Ask yourself:

• Is it a communication issue?  

• Do you feel unheard or dismissed? 

• Are your values or preferences not being respected? 

• Is it because it is hard to hear them well? 

Speak up (if you feel comfortable doing so)

Sometimes a conversation can help.  

• Health聽professionals often appreciate feedback and may not be aware of how you are feeling聽

• You can clarify any confusion by asking questions 

• Repeat back what you have heard 

• Bring notes or a support person to listen to the conversation 

Seek a second opinion 

• You聽are聽always entitled to ask for another聽health聽professional鈥檚聽perspective. This can be helpful聽if聽you’re聽unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan, or if you聽want to explore other approaches聽

Find a better fit 

It鈥檚 ok to look around to find a health professional who suits your needs. Look for someone who: 

• Communicates clearly 

• Respects your health goals 

• Makes you feel safe and supported  

If you’re unhappy with your diabetes health professional, seek a second opinion or change providers. 

Where to find other health care providers

To find a GP, including specialists near you, click .

To find a podiatrist near you, click .

Use the ADEA Find a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE) near you, click .

To find a dietitian near you , click .

To find an Exercise Physiologist near you, click .

By Karen Jameson, Credentialled Diabetes Educator