If you are scheduled to have a medical test, ASK:
What is the test for?
How is the test done?
Will the test hurt?
How accurate is the test?
Is this test the only way to find the information we need?
What are the benefits and risks of having this test?
What do I need to do to prepare for the test?
How many times have you performed the test?
When will I get the results?
What will the results tell me?

If you are considering treatment for an illness or a condition, ASK:
What are my treatment options?
Is the treatment painful?
How can the pain be controlled?
What are the benefits and risks of this treatment?
How much does this treatment cost?
Will my health insurance cover the treatment?
What are the chances the treatment will work?
What are the expected results?
When will I see results from the treatment?
Are there any side effects?
What can be done about the side effects?
How soon do I need to make a decision about treatment?
What happens if I choose to not have treatment?

If you will be going in for surgery, ASK:
Why do I need surgery?
What kind of surgery do I need?
What are the benefits and risks of having this surgery?
How successful is this surgery?
Which hospital is best for this surgery?
Will I need anesthesia?
How long will the surgery take?
How long will it take me to recover?
How long will I be in the hospital?
What will happen after the surgery?
Will my health insurance cover the surgery?
Is there some other way to treat my condition?
What will happen if I wait or don't have this surgery?

Source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality