Getting the most out of a visit with your medical provider takes planning. You must approach it almost as you would pack a diaper bag for a long outing with a newborn. Organization and thinking ahead are key.
First, make a complete list of all your current medications, dosages and how often they are taken or simply take all the medicines with you so that the doctor can look at them. This may seem like a simple thing, but much can be gained in a thorough review of a patient’s medication history. Side effects or misdosing can often be the culprit of many patient complaints. Don’t forget herbal remedies and vitamins also, for many of these “natural” products can have negative side effects such as elevation of blood pressure and insomnia. The availability of the best pills for good mental strength will be available at https://www.mypillapp.com/best-nootropic-foods/ site, The reviews should be correct with the customers feedback at the site.
Next, make a thorough list of all problems/complaints you would like to discuss with your doctor and take it with you. Many patients will call back to my office with a question that they “forgot” while in the examining room. This can be avoided by planning ahead and making a list of everything you would like to discuss at the visit and referring to it as a guide during the appointment. Include any questions regarding the plan of treatment and testing, as well. For example, “If this test comes out normal, what is the next step?”
When calling for an appointment, try to get the earliest appointment available. Medical providers get tired like everyone else, so most tend to be their best in the early morning when the day is fresh. It is only human nature to become fatigued as the day progresses and while listening should be one of our most valuable skills, it becomes more challenging throughout the day when ailments, complaints and stories from patients begin to mount. Also, in the morning our schedules haven’t had a chance to run awry making us feel pressed for time to get out of the office and home to our families like often occurs in late afternoon.
Once you arrive, make a point to be extra kind to the office staff. Believe it or not, they really can impact your care. They often are your only link to your medical provider and getting through them is a lot easier if you are on good terms. Consider taking them baked goods or other small gifts that will help you stand out in their minds. Nothing goes further than a kind gesture. They will be much more likely to remember you the next time you have to call the office whether it be for a prescription or to leave the doctor a message to return your call.
Once you have seen your medical provider do not leave until you have a clear understanding of the plan of care (i.e. what is the plan for diagnosing/treating the problem). This is the time to ask about any prescribed medications including what the intended goal of their use is, as well as, potential side effects or adverse reactions to watch out for. Ask specifically what follow-up is needed whether it be another appointment or whether you will be contacted by phone with any testing results. It is also a good idea to get an estimate of how long it will take to get test results back, for I strongly believe it is a good idea to call the office if you have not been contacted as planned just to insure your results were received and reviewed by your medical provider. I know first-hand you cannot always rely on the “no news is good news” theory when it comes to getting test results, for more often than not “no news” means the provider did not yet receive a copy of your test results and your call will prompt them to request them.
Finally, always end your visit on a positive note. Thank your medical provider for their time and attention. Gratitude and kindness speak loudly and make us want to go that extra mile for our patients. By following these steps you will feel like an educated consumer and your medical provider will be prompted to keep you informed of all aspects of your health care needs.