Ask the doctor: Gone are days doctors couldn’t be questioned

Almost every woman, and some men, will have reasons to see a gynaecologist at some point. It’s of utmost importance that you get the most appropriate care, in a good facility and by the most competent gynaecological team.

Choosing a good gynecologist can be daunting as formal rankings in Kenya are almost non-existent. However, informal judgements on quality can be inferred through experiences, public information, accessibility etc.

Seek out other peoples’ experiences, web profiles, and the gynaecologist’s extra qualifications in certain aspects of gynaecology. Always select the most reputable institutions likely to have the processes and resources required to ensure quality. Cost does not always equate to quality.

You will find best quality in some of the most affordable facilities, and gross incompetence in highly expensive facilities.

Always be clear why you need to see a gynaecologist. Most problems are of a general nature, and can be handled in most institutions and by most gynaecologists.

Consultations should be unhurried, your permission must be sought for any examination, and a chaperone must be offered. Any tests suggested must add value to the diagnosis, otherwise should be omitted.

The gynaecologist must explain, clearly and in plain language, what the diagnosis is. You must be given a chance to ask questions. This clarifies the problem, and helps you to make decisions on treatment choices.

Most gynaecological problems have more than one treatment option, including doing nothing. The guiding principles are to offer the most conservative options first, leaving more invasive and expensive choices last.

 Once treatment has been suggested, ask about alternatives, what the treatment involves, how much it costs, and the side effects. If a surgical procedure is suggested, clarify if that’s the most suitable option.

Ask whether the gynaecologist is experienced in doing such procedures, how many s/he has done in the past, and their complication rates. Following any procedure, an explanation must be given on what exactly was done, and the recommendations for follow-up.

You have the liberty to decline any proposed interventions, regardless of their perceived benefits. If unclear about some aspects of your care, always seek a second opinion.

This is especially important if proposed remedies are invasive and expensive. Any problem that is not an emergency can always wait. If any aspect of your care requires a redress of some sort, this should be readily availed to you.

Every gynaecologist or institution should have a complaints procedure, and should smoothly resolve any arising issues.

If you are proactive about your gynecological care, the odds of getting the best of care are at their best. Leaving everything to chance just keeps you exposed to second rate care.