Healthy You on Diabetes April 2006: Make the Most of Your Doctor Visits

You have lots of questions and concerns, but there’s never enough time in the doctor’s office. How can you get the most out of your visit?

“Be prepared for each appointment,” says Sumon Agarwala, M.D., Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network endocrinologist. “If you’re seeing your doctor for a diabetes-related concern, make diabetes your priority and schedule a separate appointment to talk about your other health concerns.”

Although it can be frustrating to make another appointment, Agarwala says, it helps your doctor provide the best diabetes care in that 10 or 15 minutes. “It’s most important your physician check on the ‘big three:’ blood pressure, blood lipids (such as cholesterol and triglycerides) and blood sugar,” Agarwala says. “People with diabetes are most likely to die from heart disease than anything else, and keeping a close watch on these areas is critical to your heart health.”

See your family physician or endocrinologist every three months. Here’s what you can do to be prepared:

Have your lab work done in advance. “Your doctor should review your A1c levels every three months, and your cholesterol numbers and kidney function at least once a year,” says diabetes educator Mary Cipolle, R.N. “Have your tests performed before your visit so your doctor can review your results with you at the appointment.”

Bring your blood-sugar log. “Those daily records help your doctor spot trends that will help him decide if you’re taking the right medications and proper dosages,” Cipolle says.

Keep track of low-blood-sugar (hypoglycemic) episodes. “Let your doctor know when the episodes happen and under what circumstances, so he can make adjustments to the timing or dosage of your medications,” Cipolle says.

Bring your medication list. Write down all the medications you’re taking and their dosages and show it to your doctor. “Include prescription drugs from all your doctors, over-the-counter medications and herbal and vitamin supplements, too,” Cipolle says.

Take off those shoes. While you’re in the exam room waiting for the doctor, remove your shoes and socks so he can check your feet for abnormalities or sensation changes.

Bring a buddy. There’s a lot to absorb when your doctor is talking about your health, and you may be distracted. Having a spouse, close friend or relative along provides a second pair of ears. Your buddy can take notes for you, too.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Write out a list of questions you want to discuss, and put the most important things on top. Give this agenda to your doctor beforehand - that way, your doctor can be prepare for your visit. “Bring up issues about your diet, treatment and anything you don’t understand,” Cipolle says. “Don’t expect your doctor to know what’s on you’re mind or how you’re feeling. You have to be your own advocate.”

Make the Most of Your Doctor Visits

Maximize your diabetes care in a minimum of time