You’ve decided to go see a doctor or other healthcare provider. Maybe it’s just time for a check-up. Maybe you are not feeling well. Whatever the reason, here are some ideas to make the most out of your visit.
Think about your reason for the visit, prepare ahead of time, try to focus on what brought you in – https://www.npr.org/2019/07/03/738497630/how-to-get-the-best-from-your-doctor. Before the visit, it’s important to know your own medical history, your family history, and collect a list of medications you are using day to day (including dietary supplements).
Learn how to ask questions! Sometimes the visits are short, and you forget to ask something you wanted to know about. Try to write down your questions before the visit so that doesn’t happen. Some sample questions are here – https://www.ahrq.gov/questions/10questions.html.
If you are nervous about something, it may be helpful to bring someone with you to the visit. Having two sets of ears can help you to remember some of the important things your doctor may tell you. You can also take notes during your visit, especially if you are getting a prescription, the doctor is sending you for a test or procedure, or they tell you something unfamiliar. Finally, you can ask for a printout or visit summary, or check the patient portal to see what happened during the visit.
As a patient, you have certain rights. In general, you have the right to get medical care if you need it, and to refuse specific kinds of care. You have the right to an informed decision – that is, your healthcare providers should tell you your diagnosis, the risks and benefits of possible treatments, and the success rate of a treatment if there is a known one. You have the right to privacy of your medical information and the right to view your medical records.
