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Making the Most of Your Visit to the Doctor
By Denise Grimes
Most of us have experienced some frustration with our
doctor ’ s visit . It really doesn ’ t have to be that way . Here are just a few ideas that may make your visit more beneficial .
Timing is one of the most important things to consider when setting up your visit . Like any other business , there are good times to go and times you might want to avoid . Best times are generally first thing after the office opens or immediately after lunch . There is usually a smaller crowd and fewer people ahead of you . Avoid late in the morning or afternoon appointments , if possible . Mondays and Tuesdays are frequently the office ’ s most hectic days so avoid those if you can . Holiday weeks with Monday holidays are usually very busy . Get there a bit early – try to avoid being late .
Medications are often an important item discussed at the visit , so always bring an up-to-date list of your medicines to the appointment . This includes over-the-counter medications , vitamins and supplements . You can bring either a list or the bottles . If you bring a list you should include : name of the drug , strength , how often you take it and who prescribes it for you . Carrying such a list at all times is a good idea . Also bring a list of your allergies .
Dress for the visit . Doctor ’ s offices always seem to be chilly . Take a sweater . Think about why you are seeing the doctor .
If your knee hurts , wear something that will allow the doctor to see your knee .
Next is a visit checklist . Nothing fancy is necessary . Write down why you are seeing the doctor – be specific . List the questions you want answered including , “ When do I need to return ?”
Very important DOS and DON ’ TS !
• DO bring your ID , insurance card and correct phone number .
• DON ’ T wait until you are near death to come in . Doctors can do much more to prevent small problems from becoming big problems than they can fix big problems .
• DON ’ T save up 40 problems and expect them to all be fixed during one visit .
• DON ’ T bring the entire family . We all need moral support and it doesn ’ t hurt to have one or two people with you .
Please remember that these are only suggestions . Every office is different and every visit to the same office is a little different . They won ’ t all work at every doctor ’ s office , but they will let you be a more prepared patient and allow your doctor and their staff to be more efficient in your care .
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36 DENTON COUNTY Living Well Magazine | MARCH / APRIL 2017