Make the Most of Your Doctor Visit - Part 1, 2 and 3

  • sweat-gregDoctor visits are sometimes stressful. It seems there’s so much to remember and you may become easily confused by options and instructions. You should always feel satisfied and confident about your health care plan. Join me each week to learn some insider tips on how to make the most of your doctor visit and receive the best care possible.

     

    Part One: Before You Go

    Being prepared for a visit with your doctor is the first step. Before your appointment, follow this simple checklist to ensure you receive the most complete care possible.

    Be specific when scheduling your appointment. When the receptionist or nurse knows exactly why you are making the appointment, he or she will be able to tell you what to expect and if you need to bring anything. This also helps them to schedule the correct amount of time with the doctor, allowing ample time to discuss any complex issues.
  • Make a list of questions you have and prioritize them according to importance. Generally, try to focus on three topics to make sure each is covered adequately. If you don’t get to all of them, ask if you can follow-up via email. Most clinics now offer email communication between health care providers and patients for those less urgent questions.
  • If you’re comfortable, ask a trusted family member or friend to go with you to your appointment. Your friend or relative can jot down notes so you and your doctor can focus on discussing the steps for your care.

Part Two: When You’re There

The most important part of your care starts at the doctor’s office. I understand that seeing your health care provider can be a bit nerve-racking – my job is to make you as comfortable as possible while determining the correct diagnosis and best treatment plan. However, there are a few easy steps patients can take to ensure the physician fully understands your health.

  • When you meet with the doctor, be completely open and honest. Everything you discuss is confidential. Some concerns or lifestyle habits may be uncomfortable to bring up, but it’s important that the health care provider has all necessary information to not only make a correct diagnosis, but also to set up a realistic plan that works for you.
  • Be prepared to answer very specific questions about your health concerns. How long have you been having symptoms? How severe? What time of day does it happen? Does anything make it better or worse? Are there any other symptoms that occur with your main concern?
  • Make sure you understand. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have, especially those on the list you brought with you. If you don’t understand a term, procedure or medication instructions, ask your doctor to clarify.
  • Taking notes will help you remember important details after you leave. If you brought a friend or relative, they can take notes for you to review later.

Part Three: After You Leave

Following your doctor’s instructions is imperative to your treatment. Your doctor has made decisions that will help you stay healthy and not following them may worsen your condition.
• Fill and take prescription medication as directed. If your doctor has prescribed an activity or lifestyle change, follow directions closely.
• Schedule follow-up appointments so you and your doctor can monitor progress and make any further suggestions about treatment.
• If you forget or become confused about anything, do not hesitate to call your doctor’s office. If a nurse or other staff member is unable to help you, ask to leave a message for your doctor.

Regular Visits to Your Doctor
Regular check-ups help you build a medical relationship and make it easier to identify any potential health problems. Also, stay up-to-date on tests and screenings. Both men and women should have annual cholesterol, blood pressure and cancer screenings. These simple tests help your doctor monitor changes in your health that could signal more complex concerns. Oftentimes, when caught early on, you can avoid serious health complications.