How relatives can help
Coming along, taking notes, asking questions: practical help around trial appointments.
Relatives are often more important in trial conversations than they think. They listen along, remember details and ask the questions that get lost in the moment. A few practical tips.
Before the appointment
Collect questions together and write them down. Bring a printout of the trial page so the care team can place the trial quickly. Agree beforehand who takes which role in the conversation.
During the appointment
Taking notes helps more than any memory. Ask if a term is unclear – even if the patient does not. Ask for the written patient information to read later.
After the appointment
Go through the notes together and write down open questions for the next appointment. And: the decision lies with the patient. Supporting means accompanying, not persuading.
This information is not a substitute for a conversation with your doctor.