Should I Read My Medical Scan Report Before Seeing the Doctor?

I always read it. I almost never understand 95% percent of it anyway

I also read mine... and I also upload them nto chatgpt for an interpretation... u just need to keep in mind your privacy is not guaranteed that way.

This is a hard one. When I saw my report b4 seeing my doctor I did a major panic and my anxiety went thru the roof. I did NOT understand what half of it meant and I started googling and got myself into a real state! I wait now.

I always look because when I talk to my doctor I’m more prepared to ask questions and I at least have heard some of the terms so I’m not completely in the dark. Good luck and prayers for you all!

I always read it so I can be prepared with questions when I go to my appointment. It does cause a little anxiety but I just like knowing. Knowledge is power

I always read it and formulate the questions I have and then check my understanding with the doctor.

Not only do I always read it but I also request copies of the scans. I’m no more expert at reading the reports than I am the scans, but I’m getting better. I also request that each doctor forward on to me the notes from any visit. The latter is the best narrative for understanding what’s what, particularly as it’s written in plain english.

My labs always show up before my appt, so I look at those, but my scan results have never been put in until after my appt. I do agree with what Kelly (above) said about knowing beforehand what the results are so you’re not shocked when you meet with your doctor. (For lab work since I can’t see scan results.)

The day I forgot my phone and I couldn’t look at my portal i had a calm feeling , like I was in Gods hands and not the mind of doubt, fear and the what ifs …… I was delighted as my visit with my oncologist was a good one !

Reading medical scan reports beforehand is a personal choice that varies greatly from person to person - some find it helps them prepare questions and feel more in control, while others prefer to hear results directly from their medical team who can provide immediate context and explanation. Whatever approach feels right for you is valid, and it's completely understandable to feel conflicted about whether to look at results before your appointment. Consider what has worked best for you in the past with medical information, and remember that your healthcare team is there to help interpret and discuss any findings regardless of whether you've read the report ahead of time.