Find a doctor who listens – by Hayley Godfrey

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a woman sitting on a chair in a doctors office talking to her doctor

Find a doctor who listens – by Hayley Godfrey

Key message: You deserve a doctor who listens to you, respects you, and explains things clearly. It is okay to speak up if something feels wrong.

My Story

Going to the doctor can feel different each time. Sometimes it feels good. Sometimes it feels bad. These visits can change how confident you feel.

I once saw a neurologist (brain doctor) in Brisbane. My friend came with me. Even with my friend there, I felt like the doctor did not believe me. I felt watched and uncomfortable.

Another time, I went to another doctor because I was hurt. My old doctor had left, so I needed a new one. This visit was very quick. The doctor looked at my file more than she looked at me. She said “uh‑uh” without really listening. I got an answer, but I felt ignored.

These moments taught me something. I learned to trust my feelings. I learned to speak up when something feels wrong. I learned that I deserve good care.

Not all visits are bad. I have met doctors who are kind and who listen. I now have a new doctor who is wonderful.

Before I share more, here are some simple steps that may help you find a good doctor and feel confident at appointments.

 

a woman sitting on a chair in a doctors office talking to her doctor

Easy steps for finding a good Doctor and feeling confident

  1. Finding a doctor who suits you
  • Ask people you trust for ideas.
  • Look at clinic websites.
  • Choose doctors who understand disability or long‑term health needs.
  • If you can, book a short “meet and greet.”
  • It is okay to change doctors.

 

  1. Speaking up when something feels wrong
  • Trust your feelings.
  • Use simple sentences:
  • “I don’t feel heard.”
  • “Please slow down.”
  • “I don’t understand.”
  • Take a support person with you.
  • Write your questions before the visit.
  • You deserve safe and listened to.

 

  1. Getting information in writing
  • Ask the doctor to write things down.
  • Ask for printed instructions.
  • Take notes on your phone.
  • Ask if you can record the doctor’s words.
  • Repeat back what you heard.
  • Keep all the papers together.

 

  1. Knowing your rights
  • You have the right to respect.
  • You have the right to ask questions.
  • You have the right to a second opinion.
  • You have the right to Easy Read information.
  • You have the right to say “no” if you do not understand.

 

Good care

When I look back, I see how important it is to feel heard when you go to the doctor. Good care is not just medicine. Good care is trust, respect, and feeling safe. I hope my story helps you feel braver and reminds you that you deserve dignity every time you visit a doctor.

Call to Action

If you have had mixed experiences, talk to someone you trust. Your story might help someone else feel stronger. And if you are looking for a new doctor, take your time. The right doctor can make a big difference.