Doctor visits are the perfect time to spend time with your provider, ask questions, and learn more about what's going on with your health. Preparing for your doctor visit is key to helping you feel more confident before, during, and after your appointment. But where do you start? Below, we’re giving you five simple ways to make the most of your doctor visits so you can live a happier and healthier life.
Take Notes During Doctor Appointments
Doctor visits can come with a lot of complicated medical terms that can be tough to understand and remember. Bring a notebook or something to write with so you can take notes during visits and ask for clarification when you don't understand something.
Taking notes gives you something to look back on and refresh your memory even after your appointment is over. The best part, note-taking helps to improve communication between you and your provider for future visits.
Bring Support to Doctor Visits
Going to a doctor visit alone can leave many patients overwhelmed, especially when dealing with many health issues at the same time. If this sounds like you, bringing support (a spouse, family member, or caregiver) can help you feel calmer during visits as you talk with your provider.
Having a loved one nearby can reduce anxiety about the visit and act as additional support when you discuss your health with your doctor. If you forget to mention an important symptom, they can step in to ensure your provider gets the full picture of your health.
Be Prepared: Write Down Symptoms in Advance
You know your own body best! During your doctor visit, your provider is likely to ask you questions about the symptoms you've been experiencing.
Jotting down your symptoms , questions, and thoughts in advance of your visit will help ensure you don't forget anything important to tell your doctor. Be prepared for your visit by keeping a log of symptoms, triggers, and other important health information. Having these notes will give your provider the information they need to provide the right advice and, if needed, prescribe the right medication. Writing down symptoms ahead of time will help ensure you don't forget any concerns you want to discuss with your doctor.
Schedule Regular Visits
Regularly scheduled visits, such as monthly visits, help build and maintain a strong relationship between you and your provider. This helps your provider learn your "baseline" health and have a way to track your symptoms over time. Frequent visits with your PCP can help catch health problems early, before they become serious.
Better Communication: Ask for Follow-Up Steps
Don't leave your appointment with your doctor without understanding what's next! Before you leave, ask your doctor what your next steps should be. This could include filling a medication, starting a symptom diary, or following up on lab work requested by your provider. Be sure to gather all the information you need before leaving the office.
Find a Location Near You
Regular and effective communication with your primary care provider can help you make the most of doctor visits and stay in control of your health. Use these five tips to make the most of your visits with your provider and stay informed and proactive. Remember, there are no "wrong" questions, and your care team is here to help you improve your health.
We might have a center in your area! Find physicians who can help support you in living a healthier life. Talk to your doctor today!
