4.) Does he or she know about the latest in approved treatments and breathing medications and their side effects? If there is a new medication or treatment you've heard or read about, is your doctor willing to talk with you about its benefits and drawbacks? ("Miracle" treatments you hear about might just be a scam, but your doctor should briefly take the time to explain why.)

5.) Does your doctor recognize the value of Pulmonary Rehabilitation in the treatment of lung disease? To find a pulmonary rehab program in your area, click here and choose your state. http://www.aacvpr.org/resources/search_program.cfm If you can't find a pulmonary rehab program here, call your local hospital and ask about it. They might have a program that is not yet associated with the AACVPR.

6.) Does your doctor realize that there is more to pulmonary disease management than sitting at home because "it is only going to get worse?" Even with limitations, there is hope for a full life with chronic lung disease. Don't let anybody hand you a death sentence!

7.) If you've done all your doctor says can be done and you are still struggling and wondering if you are getting the best treatment, is your doctor willing to consider referring you to a university medical center, or at least discuss that option with you?

For help with this, you can contact the nearest office of:

• The American Lung Association, http://www.lungusa.org/ or,
• The "Lung Line" of the National Jewish Medical Research Center that specializes in the treatment of lung disease. 1-800-222-LUNG. http://www.njc.org

If you answered, "Yes" to these questions, you're on the right track. If you answered "no" to any of them, think about looking for a new doctor. Remember, you're the customer and you hire your doctor. If you need advice, talk with a respiratory therapist or nurse who works with lung patients and ask that person who they'd recommend their loved one go to with a breathing problem.

Finally, remember that you must always do your part in complying with what your doctor tells you to do. The best doctor in the world cannot help you if you refuse to follow instructions or take medicines and treatments as directed.

I hope this helps. Next time we'll talk about getting the most out of your visit with your physician.