“I feel awkward asking my doctor for tests they didn’t suggest. Is it okay to ask?”
Absolutely yes! Good healthcare providers appreciate patients who take an active interest in their health. Remember, your physician works for you, not the other way around. You have every right to ask questions about your health and request tests that might benefit you.
Many healthcare professionals may not routinely order newer tests like ApoB or Lp(a) because they follow standard guidelines. But these guidelines don’t always address the specific risks that South Asians face.
“Why might my doctor not have mentioned these tests already?”
There are several reasons:
- They follow general guidelines that don’t specifically address South Asian risk factors
- They may not be up-to-date on the latest research about South Asian heart health
- These tests aren’t always part of routine checkups
- Insurance coverage for these tests varies
- They might not realize your interest in more comprehensive testing
“What exactly should I say? I don’t want to sound like I’m challenging their expertise.”
Here are some respectful ways to bring up these tests:
- “I’ve been reading about heart health specifically for South Asians. Could we discuss whether an ApoB test might be helpful for me?”
- “My family is from India, and I know South Asians have higher heart risks. Would checking my Lp(a) level be worthwhile?”
- “I understand that normal cholesterol tests don’t always show the full picture for people of South Asian descent. Can we consider checking my ApoB and Lp(a) levels?”
- “Several of my relatives had heart problems at young ages despite normal cholesterol. Would additional tests like ApoB or a Calcium Score give us more information about my risk?”
“What if my doctor seems dismissive or says these tests aren’t necessary?”
Ask them to help you understand why:
- “Could you help me understand why you don’t think this test is necessary in my case?”
- “I’ve read that South Asians often have heart attacks despite normal cholesterol. What tests do you recommend to assess my risk more completely?”
If you still feel your concerns aren’t being addressed:
- Consider getting a second opinion from another doctor
- Ask for a referral to a preventive cardiologist who specializes in South Asian heart health
- Share specific information or research about South Asian heart disease risks
“Will my doctor think I don’t trust them if I ask for these tests?”
A good doctor will appreciate your engagement with your health. Frame your request as collaboration, not challenging their judgment:
- “I trust your expertise, and I also want to make sure we’re considering factors that might be specific to my South Asian background.”
- “I know you’re looking out for my health. I’m just wondering if these additional tests might give us both more information.”
“What if these tests are expensive or not covered by insurance?”
It’s perfectly fine to ask about costs before proceeding:
- “I’d like to know more about these tests. Could you tell me about the costs and whether my insurance is likely to cover them?”
- “If all these tests aren’t covered by insurance, which one would you recommend as most important for someone with my background?”
Some labs offer cash discounts, and knowing your risk factors might save you money and health problems in the long run.
“I’m worried the doctor will think I’m overreacting.”
Prevention is always better than treatment. Explain that you’re trying to be proactive:
- “I’d rather know my risks now when we can do something about them, rather than wait for a problem to develop.”
- “Several people in my community have had heart problems at young ages, and I want to be proactive about my health.”
“Do I need a special kind of doctor for these tests?”
While most primary care physicians can order these tests, some specialists might be more familiar with them:
Preventive cardiologists Lipid specialists Healthcare providers who specialize in South Asian health
If your primary care provider isn’t familiar with these tests, it’s okay to ask for a referral to a specialist.
Remember:
You are your own best health advocate Questions show you’re taking responsibility for your health, not questioning your healthcare provider’s competence Many healthcare professionals appreciate learning about their patients’ specific health concerns Being proactive about heart health is especially important for South Asians
Your health is too important to let awkwardness or politeness get in the way of getting the best care possible. A good patient-provider relationship is a partnership, and that means open communication from both sides.
