I have great doctors and yes they are very busy but I make them listen when I really need their input. I don't "abuse" them when it's just a routine visit. I might have a bit more power as a nurse, but it can be done unless you live in a Podunk town with only 1 crappy doc. Be aggressive or have your significant other or friend speak for you--there is power in numbers. You must shop around, obviously when you are well enough to do so. Looking for a new doc is not not unlike looking for a new and very expensive appliance (no offence docs) you want to "own" it a long time and you want it to WORK!

If you need to talk to him about a specific disease or condition, research that condition as if you are sitting for a final exam on it tomorrow. To effectively communicate with a doctor you will get better results if you speak their language, and hey it is YOUR body you should be an expert. Don't be lazy, many will take advantage of that, even if it is done unconsciously.

Last Dec. I had a sinus infection, which I treated as viral for 2 weeks. When it became obvious I needed antibiotics my Dr was on vacation for the holidays. Good for him he deserves a nice rest. I went to a major medical center's (here in NYC) outpatient clinic for care, because it was close to work-- no dump, a very good rep. The doc saw me for less than 5 min, took my temp, asked me about my allergies and current meds, did NOT look down my throat. I had also been exposed to a few cases of strep recently, and told him. He did NOT listen to my lungs, I was coughing. Then he wrote me an Rx for the antibiotics. I was too sick to protest, so I did not.

When I felt better about a week later, I called my insurance co, and complained. They filed a report and investigated. The doctor admitted his errors and the report and my word for word complaint (it was very detailed) is now part of his permanent file. Oh, I almost forgot, he billed the insurance company for a 40 min visit (a bigger reimbursement) and that was denied.

You must open you mouth for justice, not just when you say AHHHHHHH!