Going to the doctor can be a difficult experience, especially with the challenge of managing our daily obligations, but health is a necessity we cannot live without!
Knowing how to prepare for your visits can mean the difference between sickness and good health. A few questions we may ask ourselves are how do I know whether they’re performing the right tests? How do I understand the treatment outlined for me or my family members? Is this the right doctor for me and my family? The road to answering these questions begins with asking the right questions.
In my experience, preparing yourself can help you and your family avoid common challenges such as having unnecessary tests, medications that do not work, or additional unnecessary follow-up visits. In some cases, these situations can’t be avoided, but you can get started on the right track with the right questions. Below I share a couple of initial questions and tips that can help you be more prepared and help you get the most from your visits.
- What are your plans for me today?
- Knowing lessens tension and allows you to ask additional follow-up questions. If your doctor is open and patient to answer questions, this can indicate their willingness to listen to your concerns and their attentiveness.
- Can I get a copy of my current medicines, your report of our visit today, and any x-rays or tests?
- Yes, you are entitled to a copy of your records. All you have to do is ask! Many patients do not ask for copies of records from their doctor’s visit, however keeping track of this will help you stay informed and recall prior visits when needed.
- I recommend using a notebook with dividers with each doctor’s name on the dividers or an app like iTriage, which will help you track your medical visits, medications, appointments, records, and much more. These options will allow you to note any questions for that doctor prior to visit and place that information in the doctor’s section of the notebook. You can hand those written questions to the doctor or read them to the doctor.
- In addition, before you forget the next appt. date, grab some extra appointment cards from receptionist and paper clip them to that doctors page until you can add it to your calendar.
Remember, going to the doctor can be a stressful process from the wait times to uncertainty of the unknown. Take a moment to determine what you would like the outcome of your time with your doctor to be so that you get the most from your doctor’s visit.
Nurse M. Dixson, RN
Daily Prescription with Nurse Dixson 