Plan your next step
Bring the questions that matter to you
Make a note of the questions most relevant to your situation. Leave space for the answers.
Discuss the problem and why this medicine
Have your care professional identify the health concern and explain the reasons behind that view. Describe what would count as a useful change in daily life.
Why discuss this medicine?
Ask what supports its use for your concern, what other options exist, and how the choice would be reviewed later.
Discuss the prescription and your health
Ask for the full product name, its form, and whether it would be ready-made or prepared to order. Ask the person prescribing to explain any unfamiliar term.
What needs a personal discussion?
Bring a note of medicines and supplements you take, allergies you know about, and any pregnancy plans. Ask what else the person treating you needs to know.
Plan follow-up, pharmacy and cost
Ask who answers questions, how to reach them, and what would prompt a review of the plan. Ask what happens if you decide to stop.
Who fills it, and what is the total?
Ask for the pharmacy’s licensed name and a written breakdown of all charges. Ask which costs repeat and how cancellation works.
The conversation needs room for your questions
Patients need a way to ask their care professional questions after a visit. The Federation of State Medical Boards adopted this guidance in May 2026.
It is guidance to medical boards, rather than a rule written just for Washington.
