Your Health: Take Control of Your Doctor’s Appointments

What did the doctor say?

Can you answer this question after your appointment? It happens to most of us in the doctor’s office: we seem to lose our memory.  A study at Allegheny College showed how extreme this can be: patients remembered only 25% of the information provided immediately after the appointment, and less than 15% one week later. All women must understand their health and their healthcare choices. Here’s how to stay focused and get what you need out of your doctor’s appointments.

Make the right appointment

When you call the office, tell them the reason for your appointment. Annual health checkups are different from appointments to address pain, a cold, or other symptom. Help the office plan enough time for you by being specific.

Come Prepared

On the day of your appointment, know exactly what you want to talk with your doctor about. Write down your symptoms and your questions before the appointment and bring the list with you. Arrive 15 minutes early to address any paperwork, and be prepared to wait if the doctor is running behind. Her other patients are discussing their health.

Educate Yourself

This is especially important if you have a chronic or serious condition. Use reputable sources like WebMD, the UK’s NHS or your national patient association (the American Heart Association is one example).  Your own doctor is a far better clinician than Dr. Google, but it’s still your health. Ask your doctor’s office to recommend sites you can trust.

During your appointment

Be honest. This is no time to hide that extra glass of wine on weeknights, or your chocolate habit. Your doctor needs accurate information to help you stay healthy.

Remember that list of health questions? Write down the doctor’s answers. If you are not sure about the answer, repeat it back to her or ask a follow up question.

If you’re dealing with something potentially serious, bring someone you trust to listen with you. What the doctor says and what you understand can vary. A second pair of ears helps, especially in an emotional situation.

We all need to manage our own health. Getting the most from your doctor’s appointment is one way to do that.