When is the last time you walked out of your doctor's office and thought, "I wish I had asked . . . ?" Asking questions is the best way to make sure that you understand what your doctor is telling you and to make sure that your doctor understands your needs and wishes. Good questions build trust, improve communication and lead to better satisfaction. Yet, in the press for time, we often forget to ask the questions that will help the doctor and us improve our care.

Your doctor knows lot about a lot of medical issues, but your doctor does not know everything about you. What are your most important concerns? What do you not understand? What troubles you?

One of the best ways to remember to ask important questions is to prepare ahead of time. A simple question can help you feel better, let you take better care of yourself, or save your life.

Here are 10 questions you should know:

What is this test for?
How many times have you done this procedure?
When will I get the results?
Why do I need this treatment?
Are there any alternatives?
What are the possible complications?
Which hospital is best for my needs?
How do you spell the name of that drug?
Are there any side effects?
Will this medicine interact with medicines that I'm already taking?

For more information, click here to visit the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.