Doctor’s visits are important, especially if you have a chronic illness that requires routine check-ups. The last thing you want to do is show up unprepared and end up wasting time.
There are plenty of things to do before you even get to the doctor’s office, from asking the right questions to preparing for discussions with your health care provider.
1. Be on time — or early
Showing up late for a doctor’s appointment may mean that you don’t get to see the doctor at all. If you’re not there when it’s time for your appointment, staff may cancel it and move on to the next patient. It’s always a good idea to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time, especially if it’s your first visit to an office of gynecology near Macon, Georgia
, for example. That will give you time to fill out paperwork and ask questions before the exam begins. You can also save time by filling out forms online ahead of time.
2. Come prepared with questions
You want to be an active participant in your healthcare. Having questions (and even answers) written down ahead of time can prevent you from forgetting points that are important to discuss during your visit.
You can ask questions like what you can consume and the nutrition value of the products you take. It also helps to keep notes about how you’re feeling and any symptoms you’ve been experiencing between appointments. By writing this information down, you’ll be better prepared when seeing your doctor and can share more details about what’s going on with your health.
3. Be as detailed as possible
It’s also helpful to give your doctor background information on any issues you may be having. The more details you can provide regarding symptoms, stressors, and health concerns, the better equipped they are to diagnose your condition and offer treatment options.
4. Bring someone with you
It’s important to have an extra set of ears and eyes at doctor’s appointments, especially if you’re having surgery or a procedure. A friend or family member can take notes for you or help ask questions about things that may be difficult for you to understand.
5. Family history
Share your family health history information before each appointment. Include information about conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, as well as other diseases that run in your family at any age, even if they don’t affect you personally.
Your doctor may have knowledge about diseases that are more common among certain ethnic groups, so knowing which group you belong to can be helpful too.
6. Use a medical journal
It always helps to come prepared, so if you keep track of medical symptoms in a journal, your doctor will have better information on which to base a diagnosis. A medical journal should contain details about symptoms like pain location and level, length of time they lasted, and what kinds of things seemed to cause them or make them better.
You should also include dates and times for when symptoms occurred so that your doctor can better understand their pattern. In addition, keeping track of whether or not you take medication may help your doctor figure out if your medication is working or not. If you have tests done by other doctors or specialists, be sure to write down information about those as well.
7. Don’t assume anything
Be honest with your doctor about all of the medications you take, even if they aren’t prescribed by a physician. This includes over-the-counter medicines and herbal remedies. Don’t assume that these medications don’t interact with other medications you may be taking. You should also be sure to let your doctor know about any vitamins or supplements you take or any changes in diet or exercise routines.
Be prepared for billing issues
Doctors know that patients want to avoid unpleasant surprises when it comes to paying for medical care. That’s why they typically have staff members who are focused on billing and insurance issues. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about costs, coverage, and payment plans. If you’re worried about being able to pay a bill or any portion of it, let someone know before the appointment or as soon as possible afterward so that you can work something out if needed.
When you’re at your doctor’s office, don’t be afraid to ask questions. There is no such thing as a “stupid” question, and your doctor wants you to be informed so that you can make the best decisions for yourself.
To keep things running smoothly for both you and your doctor, be sure to double-check before each appointment what information he or she needs from you in advance.