Make the Most of Your Doctor Visit
You have lots of questions and concerns, but there’s never enough time in the doctor’s office. What to do? Here’s what the experts suggest:- Write out a list of the problems and questions you want to discuss. “Put the most important things at the top, to make sure you get to them,” says Chris Morehouse, R.N., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network’s 402-CARE phone line.
- Give this “agenda” to your doctor beforehand. (You can mail it, e-mail it or drop it at the office.) That way, the doctor can be prepared for your visit.
- 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 also can take notes for you.
- Double-check. Repeat to make sure you’ve heard things correctly. (“Doctor, you’ve just told me XYZ…is that what you meant?”)
- Level with your doctor. Tell him or her about all the medications you’re taking, including herbal and vitamin supplements. Answer questions hon-estly, even sensitive ones about sexual practices or alcohol use. Don’t conceal any symptoms. And be honest about your personal situation—stress can have a big impact on health.
- If your doctor is “wired,” take advantage of it. “My patients can talk with me by secure e-mail, fill out interactive health questionnaires and even get routine lab results electronically,” says family physician Lou Spikol, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. “It saves so much time, we can concentrate on the important issues when we’re together.”
Want to Know More about a diagnosis or health concern, why you need a specialist, or whether there’s a support group or other resource to help you? Call 610-402-CARE. The specially educated staff can help you make the most of your relationship with your doctor.
This page last updated 2/12/08 04:08 PM
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