BE A PREPARED PATIENT

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How Can You Get the Most Out of Your Doctor's Appointment?

Before Your Appointment:

  • When making the appointment, either by phone or online, provide a few details about your concern so that a proper length of time can be scheduled.
  • If it is your first visit to a particular clinic or physician, be ready to provide information about diseases that run in your family and describe current and past health problems and treatments. Write it all down if that helps. (See Talking About Your Symptoms for more advice on how to do this)
  • Make a list of the medications you are taking including the doses and frequency of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as herbs, supplements and vitamins.

During Your Appointment:

  • Share your symptoms, relevant health history, and the list of medications that you made.
  • Don't forget about your emotional health; it influences your physical health.
  • Your health is worth the physician’s time. Repeat what the doctor has told you to be sure you understand and ask for clarification if needed.
  • Try to reach an agreement about the recommended treatment plan.

Before Leaving Your Appointment:

  • Find out if and when you should return for another visit and clarify any next steps.
  • Ask if you need to watch for certain warning signs for your condition, ask when you should be concerned and at what point you need to call in.
  • If you received a new prescription, see Understanding a New Prescription
  • Ask how to reach the doctor if you have questions or concerns – by email? By phone? What hours are best? How soon can you expect a response?
  • Don't leave if you're uncertain about your diagnosis or treatment plan.

(Source: Adapted from the Allina Hospitals and Clinics Website)

For more tips on communicating with your doctor, read Effective Patienthood Begins with Good Communication

Be Prepared

Preparing ahead of time can help you and your doctor make the most out of what are often brief appointments. We’ve reviewed various materials on preparing for an office visit and suggest the following:

MORE COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR DOCTORS RESOURCES
Getting the Most Out of a Doctor’s Appointment
Talking About Medical Tests
Asking Your Doctor Questions
Understanding a New Prescription
Talking About Your Symptoms