A visit to a doctor can be intimidating or it can be productive. Being prepared is key to getting the best results.
Arrive on time for your appointment.
Be prepared to fill out several forms, especially if this is your first visit to this doctor.
Bring a list of current medications, including the name and dosage of the medication and the name of the prescribing physician. Better yet, bring the actual medications, including over the counter drugs (OTC), vitamins and herbal supplements.
Bring any other necessary documents or items, such as x-rays, pathology reports or other medical records, or be sure that these records have already been sent to the doctor.
Bring an adult relative or friend to act as your advocate. Translators are available to help overcome language barriers.
Be prepared to give specific answers to the question, ‘What brings you here?”
Bring specific questions you want the doctor to answer and write down the answers to these questions.
If the doctor prescribes a new medication, ask:
- What is this for?
- Does this medication replace anything else I’m taking?
- How do I take this medication?
- How long do I take it?
- What side effects can this drug cause?
- Is this drug new to the market?
- Is this drug safe to take with other drugs or dietary supplements that I may be taking?
- Are there any other drugs or supplements I should avoid when taking this drug?
- Are there any activities I should avoid while taking this drug?
- If the generic version of this medication is available and costs less, could I take it?
Understand the doctor’s plan for follow-up treatment.
If the doctor orders blood work or lab tests, follow up on getting the results. Also, request a written copy of the results for your records.
advocate: someone who supports or argues on behalf of another person or group
About the author: The author, Cynthia Young teaches English She is a retired nurse and wife of a doctor
