Why we forget up to 80% of what doctors say, and how to fix it

Research shows that patients forget up to 80% of medical information immediately after a consultation, and half of what is remembered is inaccurate1. It isn’t a sign of poor attention. It’s how the brain works under pressure.

1. Why it happens

When you’re anxious, unwell or trying to take in new information, your brain shifts into short-term mode. Doctors might explain several things quickly, for example, a diagnosis, treatment options, and next steps, but you can only retain a few of them.

Psychologists refer to this as cognitive load: the mental effort required to process new information. When that load is high, short-term memory fades fast.

Even highly educated patients struggle to recall details when the conversation is fast, technical, or emotionally charged².

2. What makes it worse

Several common factors increase the chance of forgetting:

• Stress and anxiety: Worry narrows focus, making it harder to store new information.
• Medical language: Unfamiliar words are easy to mishear or misinterpret.
• Information overload: Receiving too many instructions at once can lead to confusion³.
• Time pressure: Ten minutes isn’t long when you’re covering multiple issues.

When these overlap, it’s no surprise that most people leave appointments unsure of at least part of what was said.

3. Why it matters

Missing or misunderstanding medical advice isn’t just inconvenient; it can affect treatment outcomes. People who leave appointments unclear about what to do next are less likely to follow medication schedules correctly or to know when to seek further help.

That’s why health systems, including the NHS, increasingly focus on shared decision-making, ensuring patients understand and agree on their plan before they leave.

4. How to fix it

You can’t slow time, but you can change how you absorb information. A few strategies have strong evidence behind them:

• Ask questions early: Patients who ask questions or summarise what they’ve heard recall more accurately afterwards².
• Take short notes: A few words on paper or your phone can make all the difference.
• Repeat key points back: Summarising aloud (“So I’ll take this twice a day until my next review?”) helps check understanding.
• Bring someone you trust: A second pair of ears can catch what you miss.
• Use a reliable tool to record or summarise information: Some apps like Mirror are designed specifically for this, helping you keep track of what was said so you can focus on the conversation itself.

5. Why it’s not your fault

Many patients blame themselves for forgetting, but the problem isn’t a lack of memory; it’s a lack of context. Medical appointments compress complex, emotional information into minutes. Expecting anyone to remember every detail is unrealistic.

Being prepared, asking questions and finding simple ways to record information aren’t signs of weakness; they’re smart strategies that make your care safer and more effective.

In summary

It’s normal to forget much of what’s said in a medical appointment; everyone does. However, a few small habits can make a significant difference. Preparing questions, taking brief notes, repeating key points, and using digital tools to capture what you hear.

You’ll leave clearer, more confident, and far better equipped to follow your treatment plan.