b'Wellness and Your Healthcare TeamBefore we dive into the topics surrounding your healthcare teamsuch as how to navigate through conversations when choosing a DMT, or how to manage the neglected symptoms of your MSlets assess your relationships. Try the following activity and do your best to answer each question, checking off any options relatable to your situation today. When I talk to my doctor about my symptoms, I feel:q Heard and/or validatedq Confused q Dismissed q Hopeful/Optimistic q Supportedq Disappointed q Anxiousq Empowered If I see something MS-related thats of interest to me on the Internet: q I bring it up at my next appointment q I keep it to myself out of fear q I may bring it up after I discuss itq I dont really searchmore with my loved onesMS-topics onlineThe following topics are discussed frequently at my doctor appointments:q Symptom managementq Mental health q New symptoms q Support services and resources q Medications q Nutrition and diet q Bladder/bowel issues q Preventative care (vaccines, routine screenings) When choosing a DMT for me, my doctor and I considered: q My physical and emotional q My doctor makes the choice, well-being and I agreeq Options that are suitable withq The cost and accessibilitymy other health conditions of the medication q What ts with my lifestyle q My family planning needsThe goal of this exercise is to help you think about whats going well and what needs attention in your healthcare relationships. If you feel you are unable to cover all your concerns at your healthcare appointment, you are not alone. Studies and surveys suggest many patients do not feel fully heard during their appointments for reasons such as the limited time they have with their physicians, communication barriers (your doctor uses too much medical jargon), or a lack of mutual trust and understanding in the doctor-patient relationship.If you feel there are areas of improvement that cannot be met with your current doctor, below are some tips on how to nd the right doctor for your unique journey with MS. 21'