How to talk to a health care professional
Example: "I am 23 years old, and I have asthma. I have been in hospital once for this, but not in the last 6 years. I am taking Ventolin and Flovent (list medications) since I was 10. I am allergic to penicillin and peanuts. I came to see you today because I have a fever and I am coughing a lot and I feel wheezy. I think I might need more medicine."
- if you can, write things down so that you don't forget
- say what has been wrong, what you feel like and what is different (symptoms)
- say how it is affecting your life
- say what you are worried it means
- say if you have any medical problems and if you take any medicines or allergies
My medical information
*This list is not transmitted to or saved in the YouthRAP website.
FAQ's
- How do I get old medical records?
- You can sign a paper form called a "release of information" for your health care provider to get our old medical records. Health Care providers usually have forms at their office you can fill out. You have to write the information you want.
- What about my Immunization record?
- You can sign a release to get it from your doctor. You can also talk to the Public Health department in the city you went to high school in. For Toronto, the number is 416-392-1250.
- What about urgent sexual health matters?
- In Toronto, call Health Connection Public Health at 416-338-7600.
- What are my health care rights?
- You have the right to consult a health care provider confidentially. That means privately and that they will not tell anyone without your permission. If you are in danger of being hurt or may hurt yourself or someone else, however, your health care provider can tell others to get help. You have the right to be treated fairly and respectfully.
- What can I expect when I see a health care provider?
- You may have to wait a while, so bring something to do so you do not get frustrated. They may be very busy, so it helps if you can state clearly why you are there, so they can understand quickly and help you better. They may want to physically examine you. Let them know if this would be uncomfortable for you. A health care provider may not agree to see you without a health card or if you treat them rudely.
Useful Resources