Too much to do, too little time- especially in the doctor's office. The average doctor visit is only 7.5 minutes. Whatever you do to improve communication with your doctor will make better use of that time and improve your health care. Dr. Catherine Henry, President of the American Medical Women's Association offers advice about helping your doctor help you. Dr. Catherine Henry: "To have a good relationship with your doctor, it really helps to be upfront about what your concerns are and let her or him know what you need and what you expect from your visit."

Specific QUESTIONS you should ask your doctor include:

• What screening tests do I need and how often? The most important tests for women are height and weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, rectal exam, Pap smear, breast exam, and mammogram.
  
  
• What conditions am I at risk for? How can I reduce my risk?
  
  
• Do I need additional diagnostic tests or vaccines? Just ask.
  
  
• Are there any changes I should make in my medications, contraception, vitamins, supplements or herbal preparations?
  
  
• And finally: What signs and symptoms do I need to think about as I age? Women in their 40's, for example may want to ask about approaching menopause.

We'll discuss this tomorrow on Dr. Donnica's Women's Health Report.