Getting the Most from
Your Doctor’s Visit
Plan ahead, positive attitude, listen closely and repeat.
Getting the Most from
Your Doctor’s Visit
Plan ahead, positive attitude, listen closely and repeat.
Do you find healthcare appointments stressful?
I recommend you do these things before going to the doctor. Collect and organize all your vital sign records, food diary, weight changes, and any other tracking you have recorded since your last visit. Create a written record of all prescriptions, over the counter medicines including vitamins taken since the last visit. Write down questions and/or concerns. Bring paper and pencil to write down answers.
140k+
US primary care physicians
697K
die from heart attacks in us last year
8.3%
US men have heart disease
1st Step
Contact your health plan
Health plans choose physicians and health services to serve you. Know your options before going into a doctor’s office.
2nd Step
Schedule an appointment
Arrive before appointment time paperwork and payment. Be sure to request receipts for any payments.
3rd Step
Request the Patient Rights to Access or Disclose Test Results Form
This form requires labs, radiology, and other diagnostic centers to share the test results directly with you the patient in most states. Be certain you understand how the results will be shared (email or postal service) and when.
4th Step
Snap a Photo of the Records with Your Smartphone Camera
Use your device to store your records for quick, easy access to your health record. Congratulations, you have now created a personalized health record. You can now share these images at your next physician appointment to close the gaps in care caused by not sharing between health professionals.
Notes from the Author
Here are a few tips for getting your doctor to listen to you:
- Be prepared: Before your appointment, make a list of your symptoms and any questions you have for your doctor. This will help you make the most of your time with them.
- Be clear and specific: Describe your symptoms in detail, including when they started, how often they occur, and how severe they are.
- Express your concerns and priorities: Let your doctor know what’s most important to you and what you’re hoping to achieve through treatment.
- Speak up if you don’t understand something: Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor to explain something if you don’t understand it.
- Be honest: Tell your doctor if you’re not following their instructions or if you’re having trouble with your treatment.
- Be respectful: Treat your doctor with respect and they will be more likely to take your concerns seriously.
- Consider a second opinion: If you don’t feel like your doctor is listening to you or you’re not satisfied with their diagnosis or treatment plan, consider getting a second opinion from another doctor.
Keep in mind that doctor-patient communication is a two-way street, and the relationship is built on mutual trust and respect, if you are not comfortable with your doctor and feel like they are not listening to you, it’s important to find a doctor that you feel comfortable with and one that is willing to listen and work with you to achieve your healthcare goals.
Monica Stynchula – CEO / REUNIONCare, Inc.
