In today's healthcare climate it is important to spend the time allotted for a doctor's visit productively. Providers are busy but they want to take good care of you. When you aren't feeling well or are in pain it can be difficult to concentrate. Make the most of your time with the doctor by preparing for your visit in advance.
Be prepared to describe your symptoms. The more specific you can get with describing the symptoms the better. Try to do it in an organized and efficient fashion. a.. When did the problem start? b.. Is it associated with any specific times of day or other activities such as exercise or eating? c.. What makes the symptoms worse and what if anything has made them better? Bring a list of questions with you so your concerns can be addressed. a.. What is the normal course for this problem? b.. What do I do if I have problems after office hours? c.. When can I expect test results? Will I need to call you or make an appointment to get them? d.. Will I need to see a specialist for this problem? e.. Can my family contact the doctor or assistant if they request more information? f.. What will we do if this plan doesn't work? Bring a current list of medications you are taking including the doses. This information is good to keep with you at all times. To be useful it must be complete and up-to-date. a.. Prescription medications? b.. Over the counter medications such as aspirin, Tylenol, antihistamines, etc? c.. Vitamin and herbal preparations? Be certain you understand the instructions you are given. a.. Ask the doctor or assistant to write them down or write them down yourself. b.. If you write them down yourself, ask the doctor to review them to be certain it's what he or she wants you to do. c.. Ask who to contact if there are questions once you get home and the best times to call. d.. Ask how long you should wait to contact the doctor if you are not feeling better. e.. It may help to have someone come to the appointments with you to help listen to the instructions you are given. Working with your healthcare provider is a partnership. If you don't feel comfortable with your doctor, consider a second opinion. Ask God to partner with you in your health as well. He loves us and wants to be involved in our daily lives, including our doctor visits.
In Christ’s Love,
Denise Viker Parish Nurse Desert Cross Lutheran Church