Preparing for YourDoctor Appointment

If it’s your first time visiting this doctor, you should bring:

• Copies of your medical records. Include test results, lab reports and letters from doctors you’ve seen in the past
• Your insurance information
• A list of medications you’re taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, herbal products and vitamins (you can also bring the medicine bottles)
• The name and number of your pharmacy

Before every doctor appointment, you should:

• Jot down any medical symptoms you have, when they appeared and anything you've done that's made you feel better or worse
• Note times and numbers of home tests, such as your temperature
• List any allergies, especially those concerning medicine or food
• Review your family’s history of serious illnesses or surgeries. “Family” refers to your parents, siblings and grandparents on both sides
• Review your diet and exercise habits, as well as your recent sleeping habits
• Make a note of any other health concerns you might want to discuss
• Think about what you want from your doctor on this particular visit

Ask your doctor:

• What their diagnosis is
• If they will be ordering any tests. If so, ask what they’re hoping to find out
• If they recommend a treatment plan and how you can prevent a repeat occurrence
• If you should call to get your results, or if they will call you
• If you need to make a follow-up appointment
• If you get a prescription, ask if it has any special instructions or side effects

After your appointment, make sure to follow your doctor's advice, and remember to make and keep any recommended follow-up appointments.

Call your doctor's office if:

• You have questions about the instructions
• You feel worse
• You experience worrisome side effects from any medication
• If other problems appear