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How to Plan for Your Next Doctor’s Visit

June 22, 2017

Why plan for a doctor’s visit? Here’s why: it helps improve your medical care, eases the stress of the visit and helps build trust with your doctor. And that’s just the start. Depending on the type of doctor and reason for the appointment, there are many things to consider. This infographic provides great tips on how to get the most out of your next doctor visit.

Infographic Text

 

Why Plan? It Helps to …
  • Build trust with your doctor
  • Make appointments less stressful
  • Make sure all your questions are answered
  • Inform your doctor about your health
  • Improve your medical care
Planning for Well Visits
  • Check to see if you can fill out your paperwork online
  • Bring a list of questions
  • Include a list of concerning symptoms
  • Know which diseases run in your family
  • Keep a list of medicines and supplements you’re taking
  • Be sure to bring your health plan ID
Planning for Sick Visits
  • Keep a symptom diary
  • Bring any lab results
  • Make a list of any concerns you may have
  • Bring health data from other doctors
  • Bring a friend or family member – they may think of other questions or details
Full Disclosure
  • Don’t leave out details. Your doctor wants to know everything medical that has happened to you as a patient, including all of your surgeries and past injuries like broken bones.
  • Tell your doctor everything that you’re doing that could affect your health.
  • Are you taking supplements?
  • Are you using a sleep aid?
  • How much you do exercise?
  • Are you dieting?
  • How much alcohol do you drink?
  • Do you smoke?
  • Are you under an unusual amount of stress?
  • Don’t be embarrassed – your doctor has heard it all.
Planning for Pediatric Visits
  • If old enough, talk to your child about what to expect.
  • Stay positive to help calm your child’s fears.
  • Follow the same guidelines as your wellness and sick visits.

“Always be prepared” is good advice—and it’s just as important when planning to see your doctor.

 
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