Going into a medical appointment prepared can help you get the most out of your limited time. Here are key questions to consider asking.
About Diagnosis
- 1. What assessments do you use to diagnose ADHD/autism in adults?
- 2. How do you account for how these conditions present differently in women?
- 3. Do you consider racial and cultural factors in your assessment?
- 4. How long does the evaluation process take?
- 5. What documentation will I need to provide?
- 6. Can you explain what my results mean?
About Treatment Options
7. What are my treatment options (medication, therapy, coaching)? 8. What are the potential benefits and side effects of medication? 9. How long before I might see improvement? 10. What happens if the first treatment doesn't work? 11. Are there any interactions with my current medications? 12. What lifestyle changes might help alongside treatment?
About My Specific Situation
13. How might ADHD/autism be affecting my [work/relationships/daily life]? 14. Could my anxiety/depression be related to undiagnosed ADHD/autism? 15. How do I distinguish between ADHD/autism symptoms and other conditions? 16. Is it possible to have both ADHD and autism? 17. How might hormonal changes affect my symptoms?
About Support and Next Steps
18. What accommodations might help me at work or school? 19. Are there support groups you recommend? 20. What resources can help me learn more? 21. How often should I follow up with you? 22. Who should I contact if I have questions between appointments? 23. Can you provide documentation for workplace accommodations?
About the Big Picture
24. What should I know about ADHD/autism that most people get wrong? 25. What gives you hope for your patients with these conditions?
Tips for Your Appointment
- Prioritize your top 5-7 questions
- Take notes or record (with permission)
- Bring a trusted person for support if helpful
- Ask for clarification when needed
- Request written summaries of key points