Feeling nervous before your upcoming doctor’s visit? Worried that you won’t have time for everything you need? Unsure of how to prepare and what to say? Here are a few ways to help you make your appointment as efficient as possible.
Ahead of the visit
Schedule smart
When booking an appointment, let them know whether you have a specific complaint you’d like to talk about, or if it’s just a regular visit. Since discussing an acute health issue might take longer than a simple check-up, such clarification will help you get an appropriate time slot. In addition, ask about lab work: if you need a blood test, for instance, you’ll have to come on an empty stomach (and a morning visit in this case would be a better option). You can also ask whether it’s possible to do the required tests ahead of your visit and come to the appointment already with the results.
Research family medical history
Many conditions are hereditary, and the doctor will ask questions about your family medical history to establish whether you are under any particular risks. Talk to your family and find out if there are any diseases that you have to watch out for in particular. Not all families tend to be open about their health, but don’t let that stop you – the awkwardness will pass, and the information you get might be critical for your future.
Prioritize your concerns and prepare questions
Unfortunately, doctors don’t have much time for every patient – appointment slots average around 20 minutes. So it’s best that you think of what worries you the most at the moment and lead with that. If you have several concerns, you can talk about smaller issues after you’ve discussed your main complaint. For example, heartache is usually a far more immediate concern than dry skin. Make a list of questions you’d like to ask your doctor, so you don’t forget anything important.
Ask a friend to accompany you
Medical establishments are not the most pleasant of places and it’s natural to feel uncomfortable during the visit. Bring a family member or your significant other with you for moral support. They can also help you take notes of the doctor’s recommendations and any other useful information.
At the clinic
Come on time
There is a stereotype that doctors are always late, and even if there is some truth to it, make sure you are not late yourself. Come a little in advance, especially if it’s your first visit to this doctor. You’ll have an opportunity to find the right room, settle in and go over your questions once again with no hassle. By the time your name gets called up, you’ll be calm and focused.
Tell your story chronologically
Describe your symptoms in detail and give precise timelines, where possible, so that your doctor has a clear picture of your situation. Try to remember when exactly did the headaches start, and whether the nausea or the dizziness came first. This will help your doctor assess your condition and make the best diagnosis.
Volunteer information
Don’t be embarrassed to go into detail about your concerns and pains. Medical professionals hear dozens of different stories every day, and whatever you tell them, they won’t act surprised or judgmental. And if they do, you might need to switch to another care provider.
For some useful tips on how to find a doctor you can trust, you can consult our previous article.
You never know what information might be relevant, so make sure to list all your symptoms and be honest about any conditions, issues or bad habits you may have. Even if it’s tempting to embellish the situation so as not to disappoint your doctor, being open and truthful is critical for getting the appropriate help.
Show your medications
To ensure the best treatment, your doctor needs to know whether you’re already taking any medications, how often and for how long. It might be difficult to remember everything, even more so, if you have prescriptions for several conditions. Take your medications with you or take a picture of them at home – that way you’ll know that you’re giving your doctor all the necessary information.
Ask for clarifications
If there’s anything you’re uncertain about – ask your doctor during the visit. If they use an unfamiliar medical term, or the treatment plan seems a little confusing, it’s better to double check right away than to try figuring it out at home on your own and risk getting it wrong.
After the consultation
Recap your recommendations
When your time is up, repeat the recommendations you were given and the treatment plan back to your doctor. Make sure that you understood everything correctly and didn’t forget any important details.
Take notes
Write down what you talked about and what to do next, as well as any sources you might need to learn more about your condition. Get your doctor’s contact details, in case you have an emergency or need to inform them about how your treatment is going. Keep your notes.
Book the next appointment
If possible and necessary, schedule your next visit. It’s also useful to book any additional tests you might need later while you’re still at the doctor’s office. Put the dates into your calendar, so you don’t forget them.
Even though visiting a healthcare professional may not be the most pleasant errand, it doesn’t have to be too stressful. And making your appointments count is a sure way to take better care of your health.