Other Strategies to Elicit Concerns

In addition to asking the patient and family about growth and puberty concerns, the following are some additional strategies you might try:

• Use a previsit questionnaire or prompt in the documentation for the medical encounter that asks about concerns at every visit.
• Use a patient portal that allows patients and families to interact and communicate their concerns with the practice via the Internet or e-mail.
• Develop a post-visit process such as a survey that queries patients and families about whether their concerns were addressed or if plans were made to address them. Ask if the family understands and is satisfied with the plan or if they have any additional concerns.