Questions to Ask Your Doctor About GM
A printable-friendly list of the questions I wish I'd brought to my first three GM appointments.
Bring this list to appointments. Star the ones that matter most for you and don't leave without answers to those.
About the diagnosis
- What did the biopsy specifically show? Can I have a copy of the pathology report?
- Do you feel confident this is GM and not something else?
- Were cultures done? What did they grow?
- Should we send tissue for specialized Corynebacterium cultures with lipid supplementation?
About treatment
- What treatment paths are you considering, and why this order?
- What are the side effects I should watch for?
- How long before we expect to see improvement?
- What is the plan if this doesn't work?
- Do you work with a rheumatologist if methotrexate becomes an option?
About day-to-day
- Can I still exercise, work, and travel?
- Wound care instructions in writing?
- What should I do if I develop a fever or new drainage?
- Who do I call after hours?
About the long view
- How often will we follow up?
- What does "remission" look like for GM in your practice?
- What is the plan if it comes back?
You are not being difficult by asking. You are being a good patient — and often, teaching your provider along the way.
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