460 228th Ave NE

Sammamish, WA 98074 US

(425) 868-9025

Informed People Make Healthy Choices

Being an informed patient is an empowering concept.1 In the modern healthcare marketplace, the doctor-patient relationship has become a two-way street. It's no longer a situation in which the doctor tells the patient what to do. Today, patients can be full partners in managing their care and well-being.2

What does it take to be an informed patient, one who can participate in a meaningful way and not be merely the passive recipient of the doctor's instructions and recommendations?

The first key is to identify a doctor - a chiropractor or family physician, depending on the circumstances - in whom you have confidence. Here are a few essential points to consider

  • The doctor has spent enough time with you on the first visit
  • The doctor has focused on you, and has not been distracted by all the other things happening in the office
  • The doctor has satisfactorily answered all your questions
  • The doctor's recommendations are clear, and you understand what the next steps are going to be


The questions you ask are not just to keep talking and capture more of the doctor's time spent with you. An informed patient does some preparation - some homework - before the actual office visit. The Internet offers a lot of valuable information on both chiropractic and medical treatment. And, it's important to remember that not all information is accurate and authoritative - consider the source of the "information".

  • Consider the author's background and affiliations
  • Consider the potential for bias
  • Is the site itself up-to-date - for example, are there "dead links" on the site


Do your best to evaluate the doctor's recommendations. First, what are the expected results? How quickly should you begin to feel better? Are there potential side-effects of the recommended treatment? What are the alternatives?

Alternatives may include other forms of therapy within the doctor's office and may also include consultation with another specialist. The main point is not to be left with a confusing array of choices, but to have enough information to go forward with a treatment plan that makes the most sense, both to your doctor and to you.

If a prescription is involved, make sure you write down the exact spelling of the medication and the exact dosage and frequency. Prescriptions are usually scribbled, and both doctors and pharmacists can make a mistake. Don't let your doctor simply hand you an illegible piece of paper. Insist on ensuring that you understand what is being prescribed, and be sure to ask your doctor about potential side effects, risks, and interactions with any other medicines you may be taking.

As in all relationships, the doctor-patient relationship is based on clear communication and mutual trust and understanding. You can help your doctor help you by being informed and participating in the decision-making process.

1Informed Consent. "Ethics in Medicine". University of Washington School of Medicine. http://depts.washington.edu/bioethx/topics/consent.html#ques1
2"Be an active healthcare consumer". Agency for Healthcard Research and Quality. http://www.ahrq.gov/path/beactive.htm






Exclusive Offer

New patients receive 20% OFF initial Chiropractic visit!

Sign-up using the form or call us at 425-868-9025 to take advantage of this exclusive offer.

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Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:30 am-6:30 pm

Tuesday:

10:30 am-6:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-6:30 pm

Thursday:

10:30 am-6:30 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-6:30 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Location

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Testimonials

Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "I started to go to Precision Chiropractic and Massage in 2014 for the Ideal Protein program, had a great experience and reached my goal. Then I returned to them a few months ago for massage services, reasonable pricing, both Sharon and Tami are GREAT! Then I started seeing Dr. Schweitzer and Dr. Bennett for my neck, shoulder and back problems, and felt much better just after a few adjustments. Now I take my mom there too for adjustments. I've always had a great experience there, love the front desk ladies! I suggest you go check them out!"
    Meng W. Sammamish, WA
  • "Tami is one of the most caring massage therapists that I have gone to. I tell her what the problem is and she works it out. I would highly recommend her to anyone wanting to get excellent massage therapy."
    Jim R.
  • "I feel way better since coming to see Dr. Schweitzer. He's helped me with my lower back, hips and even my tennis elbow. I also just signed up for Ideal Protein through his office."
    Skyler Z.

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