7 Tips for Making the Most of Your Doctor Visit

July 15, 2014

Doctor visits are not fun and are often frustrating.  Patients encounter long waits, then feel rushed through their time in the exam room. Being prepared can help alleviate some of the frustration and help you be a more active participant in your care.

Here are 7 tips to make the most of your doctor visit and build a better relationship with your doctor and their staff.

  1. Arrive On Time - Arrive early if you are a new patient to allow time for completing paperwork. Some doctors have a cut-off and will make you reschedule your appointment if you are late. If you find yourself running late call the office to find out if they are able to accommodate you.
  2. Be Prepared to Pay - Most offices require payment at time of visit. Office co-payment information is usually printed on the front of your insurance card. Co-pays can vary for Primary Care and Specialist office visits. If you're in need of seeing the doctor but unable to pay, call ahead and discuss arrangements with the office. (Here are  tips for understanding insurance coverage.)
  3. Update your information - Be sure your contact information and insurance information is up to date. Incorrect information can delay scheduling of tests and referral appointments and non-payment of insurance claims. Always have your current insurance card with you. Even if the insurance company has not changed, the policy numbers may have updated since the previous year.
  4. Bring Current Medications - Bring the bottles so the nurse can verify you are taking the correct dose which they have documented and check for any refill needs. Include vitamins and natural supplements as they may affect some medical conditions and interact with medications.
  5. Ask Questions- You want to be sure that all your symptoms and concerns are addressed so make a list of questions to ask your doctor. Don't rely on your memory or for the doctor to lead the conversation, it's your health and your body, so be comfortable enough to discuss anything out of the ordinary with your physician.
  6. Take Notes - The answer to your questions might include words you do not fully understand or several treatment options. If you do not understand why a test is being ordered, ask for an explanation. Write down what the doctor tells you so you can have it noted for further research or to discuss with family members.
  7. Follow Doctor's Orders - If the doctor orders labs or tests be sure to have them done. If given a new medication to try, take it. The simple act of seeing a doctor will not improve your health and doctors need lab and test results to help them determine the best treatment for your conditions. If a new medication isn't working or has unwanted side effects call the office immediately so an alternative can be prescribed.

Do you have any tips to share?

saralicious

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah (aka Sarahlicious) has been an active member of ObesityHelp since 2003. Her specific areas of interests are Lipedema, Lymphedema, Obesity, and Health Insurance advocacy. Sarah writes about her life experiences at Born2lbFat. She is a member of the Board of Directors of both the Obesity Action Coalition and the Lymphedema Advocacy Group. Sarah has a Masters in Health Law.

Read more articles by Sarah Bramblette!