I had surgery last month to replace my knee joint. Afterwards, the hospital sent me a survey. Most of the questions had to do with how I was treated at the hospital. Some of the questions were more personal, asking about my sleep, pain, and the like. What is the purpose of these questions? Should I answer them?

Today’s health care professionals are being asked to show that the treatment they provide is effective. Questionnaires are one of the most valid and reliable ways to measure the results of treatment.

Health care providers hope treatment improves patients’ function and reduces pain and stiffness. Patient satisfaction and quality of life are also important measures of success. Health care providers want to know whether your quality of life has improved after surgery. If so, they can consider the surgery a success and recommend it to other patients.