Do You Look at Test Results?

As a nurse who currently works full-time in clinical informatics, in my opinion, it is irresponsible for a provider not to notify the patient before the test results are posted online.  I would expect a phone call at minimum.  

But that doesn't answer your question...   

I would read it was posted online, because I have no patience.  If you do read it online just stick to the section called "Impression".  If you see anything on the report that concerns you call your doctor right away.

Hang in there. 

For me, I always get my radiologist's reports so I am prepared to ask questions or get clarifications. Often I have the report before the referring doctor has seen it. But, I have other medical conditions that each affect the other, so I have been getting my own copies of reports. Not everyone can understand a radiologist's reports and may worry needlessly or have their fear relieved. I also know that the Radiologist does not have the final say. It is important to know that fact. They only have one piece to the person your doctor knows best. 

Again, each person is different. Each has their own ability to cope with both good and bad news. 

Jan

If you're going to read the report in any event (rather than relying only on the short oral version given to you by your doctor), consider reading the report the night before you and your husband go in for the appointment with the doc.  That way, you will have your questions about the report ready for the face-to-face with the doc.  It beats e-mailing questions and waiting for a nurse's version of the doc's reply.  Looking at the report too far in advance gives you too much time to worry about unfamiliar language that might sound ominous to you but might be totally innocent medical jargon that can be easily explained. That's why I'd suggest waiting before looking at the report.  I've had stuff in my reports which sounded concerning to me, but was really not a big deal.

In the future, can you get your scans scheduled closer to the following doctor's appointment?  This waiting business is for the birds.

Best wishes.

Dutch

to learn what is going on when given the chance. You want to be informed of all the health trends relating to your care. It can be a bad feeling to find that your doctor and you have different ideas. I've had lots of radiation for bone mets. I'm doing well. Others have had extensive orthopedic surgeries. No thank you. In other words you want to be sure about decisions you make. Be informed. Besides, in my experience, Drs. like active participation with pts. Saves time. Getting down to business with mutual understandig.

Good Morning!

My husband doesn't want to know!  However, as the researcher/caregiver I need to read the report ahead of time so that I can ask questions.  As others have mentioned, much of the jargon is beyond my comprehension, but I at least have a general idea of what to expect.  Fortunately, most of his scans have shown stability!

hardo718 said:

My 2 cents

I definitely view my reports as soon as they are released to me.  Then, if I have questions, I know what I want answers to.  I have a medical background so I understand most of the report and if I don't understand I know who to contact.  But if you aren't familiar, my experience is that at the very bottom of the radiologists interpretation it will have a section referred to as "conclusion", typically that is written in a non-medical jargon format, if you will.

Best wishes,

Donna~

Tech said tiny cyst they  are watching on the kidney that is left (right kidney) is still there and nothing  to worry about. Will see Uro in about a month for results and URO handshake (Prostate Exam). I was nephed on August 1, 2002.

Icemantoo

Add me to the list of folks who reads before going in case there are questions.  Google is a wonderful thiing to look up all of those crossword puzzle words.