Doctor Visit Tips

Going to the doctor can be quite a challenge. These tips will help you make the most of your doctor visit.

One of the first things you want to do is make a written or typed medical history* to take with you, especially if this is your first visit to a new doctor. Make a copy for you and your doctor. You both will be able to refer to it as needed. This will save valuable time, and give you and your doctor more time to talk instead of flipping through your medical record. It can be difficult trying to "remember" what test or procedure you had 10 years ago.

Start keeping a list of things you want to talk to your doctor about. Update the list before each visit. This way you will be able to keep track of what has been discussed, and what needs to be discussed. Try to talk about the most important things first especially those that need immediate attention. Each time you go for your visit, you can refer to your list and take up where you left off. Be sure to express your immediate concerns first. We all know how short a doctor visit can be.

Request copies of your medical records from all your doctors. "The medical record is the cornerstone of keeping track of everything pertaining to your health." You will be able to check the accuracy of your records, and bring any errors or absent information to your doctor's attention. Let your doctor know about anything you do not understand, or if there is something you are unable to read due to legibility. It is surprising to see how many doctors are often unable to read their own handwriting.

Stay on top of your health care with these tips. After all, great health is true wealth!

Click on "Comments" below to add your tips and questions.

by J. L. Richardson, MD, family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide, the perfect tool for helping you make your medical visits the best.

http://www.mypatienthandbook.com/
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More tools to help you with your doctor visits:

http://www.mypatienthandbook.com/ - *medical history form on website.

Medical record release form - http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC010234611033.aspx?CategoryID=CT101433201033

Medical tests A to Z - http://www.medicinenet.com/procedures_and_tests/article.htm

Specialists A to Z - http://www.healthadvantage.org/body.cfm?id=85