Take measures to have successful doctor visits
Sandwich Generation: What seems obvious when you are well will be overwhelming or forgotten when you are ill
Whether a well-check or illness-related, pro-active measures on your part will go a long way in experiencing a successful doctor visit.
For starters, make sure you let the schedulers know when making your appointment what your issues are so they schedule an appropriate amount of time for your visit. Ask the length of the time scheduled so you use all the time allotted.
Come prepared. Be truthful — share it all, facts and feelings. Also share if you are wearing a hearing aid or have trouble hearing.
Bring a list of specific issues and questions that you want addressed. If you are really worried about something bring someone trusted with you to listen and take notes.
If there is some background or a timeline of relevant information, write up a few short bullet points so you won’t forget if you get side-tracked. Sometimes the littlest of details or the most embarrassing of stories or symptoms can make a big difference in understanding your situation.
Don’t forget a list of every medication and the doses you take, prescription and over-the-counter supplements. This is especially important if you have multiple doctors. Certain medications mixed with supplements can be very dangerous to your organs.
Your primary care physician is the quarterback and needs all the information from your specialists to be able to look at your whole picture.
Be sure to sign a records release form at each doctor so they send records, labs and x-rays to your PCP at no charge.
Ask for eye contact if you get a doctor who keeps their eyes on the computer when you talk.
Repeat what the doctor says in your own words to make sure you understand the situation. Ask questions until you get it!
What seems obvious when you are well will be overwhelming or forgotten when you are ill.
Elaine Poker-Yount is Community Liaison for Visiting Angels East Valley For more information, reach her at 480-833-8247 or elaine@visitingangelsaz.com.