The Top 5 Questions You Should Be Asking Your Doctor in 2025
2025 is here, and with it comes new health concerns, evolving medical advancements, and an overburdened healthcare system. But are you making the most out of your doctor’s visits? Many Canadians aren’t asking the right questions—questions that could change the way they manage their health.
With long wait times and limited appointments, every conversation with your doctor counts. Here’s what you need to be asking to ensure you’re getting the best care possible.
Missed Opportunities in Doctor Visits
Many people go into appointments unprepared, leaving with more confusion than clarity. Studies show that patients retain as little as 20% of the information their doctor shares, and with Canada’s healthcare challenges, making the most of your visit is more crucial than ever.
Additionally, a lack of preparation can result in:
- Delayed Diagnoses: Important symptoms can go unnoticed without the right questions.
- Unnecessary Follow-Ups: Missed details may lead to repeated visits, costing both time and money.
- Miscommunication: Patients may leave feeling uncertain about their treatment plans, leading to poor health outcomes.
What’s at stake?
- Your Health Outcomes: Without the right questions, you might miss early warning signs or treatment options.
- Wasted Appointments: Limited access means each visit should count—don’t waste it on things you could’ve asked earlier.
- Preventive Care Gaps: Many chronic illnesses, like diabetes and heart disease, could be better managed if patients were more proactive.
With such limited access to healthcare professionals, it’s crucial to be proactive and prepared before stepping into your doctor’s office.
The Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor in 2025
Stick to a Routine
Your body thrives on consistency. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day—even on weekends—helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.
1. “Am I up to date with my preventive screenings?”
Preventive screenings are crucial for early detection of diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Ask your doctor which screenings are recommended for your age, lifestyle, and family history. Knowing when to get tests such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and cholesterol checks can help you stay ahead of potential health issues. Don’t forget to ask about vaccinations and routine blood work as well.
2. “Are there any lifestyle changes that could improve my health?”
Small adjustments in diet, exercise, and daily habits can significantly impact your long-term well-being. Your doctor can provide tailored recommendations, such as dietary changes to improve heart health, exercises to manage weight, or sleep hygiene tips to enhance rest. Ask about realistic, sustainable changes that fit into your lifestyle.
3. “What should I do about my medication management?”
Many people take multiple medications without fully understanding their side effects, potential interactions, or alternatives. Ask your doctor to review your medications and check if any adjustments can be made. Are there lifestyle changes that could reduce your need for certain medications? Should you consider generic options to lower costs? Staying informed about your prescriptions ensures safer and more effective treatment.
4. “How can I better manage my mental health?”
Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it often goes unaddressed during doctor visits. Ask about stress management techniques, therapy options, and available mental health resources. Your doctor can also discuss how lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and exercise impact your mental well-being. Don’t hesitate to ask about medication options if necessary.
5. “How do I find a family doctor if I don’t have one?”
Over 6 million Canadians don’t have a family doctor, which can lead to fragmented care and difficulty managing chronic conditions. If you’re without a primary care provider, ask your doctor about options for finding one. Services like Medimap can help you connect with available doctors in your area, ensuring continuity of care and better management of your health.
Make 2025 Your Healthiest Year Yet
Taking control of your health starts with being proactive and informed. Asking the right questions is a great first step, but having ongoing access to a trusted healthcare provider is just as crucial.
Regular check-ins with a family doctor can help you stay on top of preventive care, catch health issues early, and get personalized advice tailored to your unique needs. However, with millions of Canadians struggling to find a family doctor, staying proactive isn’t always easy.
That’s where Medimap can help.
With Medimap’s Family Doctor Subscription, you can:
- Skip the long search: Get matched with available doctors in your area based on your needs.
- Enjoy ongoing care: Build a relationship with a healthcare provider who understands your health history.
- Stay informed: Ensure you’re up to date with screenings, medications, and lifestyle changes that fit your goals.
Take Control This Year
Your health is in your hands, and 2025 is the year to take control. Start by being proactive, informed, and prepared for every doctor’s visit. Whether it’s about prevention, treatment, or lifestyle changes—the right questions can make all the difference.
Medimap Quick Links
Get quick, quality care with Medimap. Connect with top professionals tailored to your needs and get an appointment booked today!
🩺 Find a Family Doctor: Get matched with a family doctor by joining Medimap’s Family Doctor wait list.
💊 Pharmacy at Your Fingertips: Need a prescription refill or health advice? Discover pharmacies in your area.
🥗 Nutrition Guidance: Our registered dietitians are ready to help you optimize your diet and health.
👤 Physiotherapy Care? Bend, not break. Align with top physiotherapy for back-to-bliss experiences.