How to Benefit from a Doctor's Appointment

An ordinary doctor's appointment lasts between 10 to 20 minutes. To get the most benefit from these visits you should be prepared. Here are some tips to help optimize your doctor appointments.

Before the Visit

Explain the reason you need to see the doctor when scheduling the appointment. Specify if the visit is for a new problem, a chronic condition such as diabetes, or just a routine physical examination.

Maintain a health history and provide as much detail as possible. This health diary may demonstrate helpful patterns. For example, if you have frequent headaches the headaches may occur whenever you do not get enough rest.

List all of your health concerns that have arisen since your last visit. These are new issues that should be discussed.

Make a list of your questions and start with the most important ones.

Take a list of all the medications which you take. Inform the doctor if you have noticed any side effects.

Gather and take previous medical reports and test results.

Take your insurance cards to the visit. Carry the current provider directory, so if your physician refers you to a specialist, you can determine if the specialist participates in your plan.

Confirm the appointment a day ahead. Ask if there are special instructions you need to follow.

The Appointment

Arrive early to fill out all the required paperwork.

Take someone with you to the appointment. A friend or family member may be able to listen more objectively.

Write down important notes during the visit.

Be honest and frank, even if the you believe the subject is personal or embarrassing. Doctors can handle it, as they are trained to be discrete and nonjudgmental.

Bring it to Completion

Do not expect to have every single question answered in just one visit. Additional tests may be required.

If you get a diagnosis, make sure you understand it. If necessary ask the doctor to re-explain the diagnosis. Ask for brochures or any other educational materials about your situation.

Ask the doctor what can be done to help with your problem. You may want to get a second opinion, especially if the condition is serious.

If new medication is prescribed, make sure you understand what it is for, and how and when you take the medication. Ask if a generic is available and advisable.

Finally, ask if there are any additional instructions and if you need a follow-up appointment.

Source: Mari S. Gold, Optimizing Your Doctor's Appointment, American Profile Magazine, February 6, 2010.