A patient and family will not wait long to seek professional help. One or more family member will accompany the patient to a medical appointment. It is common for the family member to stay with the patient and to help answer questions about the patient's health. In Arab countries, patients are told only the good news about their disease. In severe cases, the doctors generally report the seriousness of the illness and its likely consequences to a selected family member.
Patients are usually anxious to receive a medication as soon as possible.
They will answer questions, will listen carefully to the health care provider's advice, explanations and warnings, and will follow the provider's directions carefully. Some patients may argue about lab testing, X-rays and medication but in the end will accept the provider's orders. However, once symptoms have improved, many patients will stop taking the prescribed medication or will not return for a scheduled follow-up appointment. When a patient is admitted to the hospital, it is a social obligation for friends and family to visit and bring presents such as flowers, cookies or chocolate. It is common for recovering patients to send or bring gifts to their health care providers as a sign of appreciation.