How Should I Prepare?
Getting Ready for an Appointment
Make the most of your appointment, whether you are starting with a new doctor or continuing with the doctor you’ ve seen for years. The following tips will make it easier for you and your doctor to cover everything you need to talk about.
List and Prioritize Your Concerns
Make a list of what you want to discuss. It is best to prioritize the list so you and your doctor can discuss the topics most important to you first. Put your most important concerns at the top of the list. For example,
* Do you have a new symptom you want to ask the doctor about? Take the time to make some notes about your symptoms before you call or visit the doctor.
* Do you want to get a shot to protect you from the flu, pneumonia, or shingles?
* Are you concerned about how a treatment is affecting your daily life?
Medical appointments average about 15 to 20 minutes, so ask your most important questions right away! Worksheet 3: Changes to Discuss, on pages 43 – 44 of this booklet can help.
Take Information With You
Bring a list of your medications, including the dose and time you take each prescription drug, over-the-counter medicine, vitamin, and herbal remedy or supplement. Or simply bring a bag that contains everything you take so the doctor can review your medicines. Take your insurance cards, names and phone numbers of other doctors you see, and your medical records if the doctor doesn’ t already have them.
You may want to ask the doctor to send you all the forms you will need to complete for your visit, including:
* Health history * Health insurance
* Health information privacy( HIPAA) agreement
The office staff can send the forms to you attached to an email message so you can print them at home, or they may be able to send the forms in the mail. That way, you can take your time completing the forms at home, where you will have all the information you need. If you have problems understanding how to fill out any of the forms, ask for help. The doctor’ s office staff and some community organizations can help.
6 Getting Ready for an Appointment