Six Tips to Prepare for a Doctor Visit

When it comes to our health, many of us neglect to prepare for our next doctor’s appointment. Yet, it is vital that we spend some time at least thinking about one or two questions we should ask our physician so that we can make the most out of the limited time we’re slotted. Most physicians aren’t trying to rush any of their patients out the door, but their time is limited, and they can feel pressured to meet certain quotas established by corporate medical institutes. If we don’t come prepared for the appointment, the physician is less likely to linger in the exam room while their patients sit silently. Seniors can especially feel rushed, and may be less likely to speak up for themselves as they grew up in the generation where the doctor’s word was final. Here are six tips to help prepare for your next doctor appointment, so you can leave feeling confident that you made the most of your time with your doctor.

Prepare Necessary Documents Ahead of Time
Prior to your appointment, make sure that you have your current insurance card, prescription card, and photo identification card. Put these in a readily accessible location, such as a wallet or purse, and don’t leave home without them. It’s likely that the receptionist will request to make a copy so that they can update their records. They will also confirm to which pharmacy doctors should send prescriptions, so have that response ready. Write down the exact drugstore location you prefer, in order to avoid mixing up which drugstore is your go-to pharmacy.

Jot Down Concerns or Health/Mood Changes
Before your appointment, write out a list of health concerns you may have. This is something that you can do with a close family member or friend, as they may have noticed changes in your mood or temperament that you’re not aware of. Speaking of mood, don’t neglect your mood when you think about changes in your health. Your overall health and well-being includes your mood or temperament. Changes in your mood or behavior could be an indicator that something is off with your health. Keep this list brief and specific and stick to changes that have occurred since your prior doctor’s visit.

Gather All Medications
Put together a list of all your current prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and any vitamins or supplements that you take consistently. Bring this list with you so that the doctor can update your medical chart and make appropriate changes. If you don’t have time to write it all down, put all your medications in a baggie and bring that with you to your appointment. Ask for an updated medication list before you leave the office, and keep that list updated after each doctor appointment.

Practice Courage
Visiting the doctor can be intimidating, especially if you’re a natural introvert. If you get nervous during doctor appointments, ask to speak to the doctor when you’re fully clothed, either before or after the exam, or both. The doctor wants to respect your privacy and wants you to feel as comfortable as possible. If it helps to speak up about any concerns you have when you’re fully dressed, you have the right to do so. Also be reassured that the doctor has heard it all, so there’ s nothing to be embarrassed about. Give your doctor the courtesy of being honest and fight the urge to respond with what you think they want to hear.

Wear Your Hearing Aids
If you wear glasses or hearing aids, please don’t forget these at home. It’s important that you don’t miss what your doctor is advising because you were embarrassed by your hearing aids or glasses. If the doctor talks too fast, ask them to slow down and repeat what they said. If they’re speaking in too much medical jargon and you can’t follow what they’re saying, tell them. Ask for clarification or repeat back to the doctor what you heard them say so that everyone is on the same page.

Bring an Advocate
Finally, bring someone to advocate for you with you to your appointment. This could be a spouse, a family member, or a friend. Your advocate is there to ensure that you don’t miss anything. They can take notes while you focus your attention on the doctor’s words. You can ask them to step out of the room during the actual examination. Having another set of eyes and ears alleviates the stress that some patients have during their appointment. Your advocate can also gently mention facts that you’ve missed or concerns they have regarding your health.

Visiting Angels Chesterfield-Richmond wants all seniors to have a positive experience at their next doctor’s appointment. Whether it’s a routine visit or sudden appointment, we’re here to advocate for you. If you don’t have a loved one who is able to escort you to your doctor’s appointments, our compassionate caregivers are ready and able to assist you. We can wait patiently in the waiting room or be your advocate in the exam room. This is just one of the many amazing senior in-home care services that we offer. To learn more about us, how we can partner together, and what in-home care services are right for you, please contact us today by calling 804-423-6500. We look forward to hearing from you.