Patient question
If a patient with high blood pressure or coronary heart disease finds that the doctor's verbal instructions differ from the written medical orders, which one should they follow?
Answer reviewed by Li Yan, Chief Physician
Professional answer
Do not decide on your own which version is more accurate. Contact the medical team that issued the orders as soon as possible to verify each item. Explain the date of the visit, the specific conflicting content, and the current plan you are following, and request a corrected written explanation. Especially when it involves medications, test preparation, or follow-up appointment times, obtain a clear response and do not combine two different sets of instructions on your own.