By Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM
Most of us don’t look forward to a doctor’s appointment. Parking is a hassle, wait times can be long, and we rarely see the same doctor if they’re in a group practice.
A medical practice can include not only a team of doctors but also a rotation of CNPs (Certified Nurse Practitioners) and PAs (physician assistants). They collaborate to provide immediate and follow-up care and often span several locations, ensuring we get care when our regular doctor isn’t available. For those reasons, it is important to make the most of a medical appointment, both yours and a loved one’s.
There are many things you can do to make the most of every medical appointment:
- Schedule appointments when they fit your schedule best. This is not always an option but when it is, consider your or your loved one’s pain level, mobility, drive time, bathroom schedule, meal and medication schedule and other issues.
- Think about the goal of the appointment. What is the issue, what do you want to discuss and how will you explain the concern(s)? Take time to think, plan and be prepared before the appointment. If you are reporting symptoms, keep a list so you can report accurate data. Include the date, time of day, severity, and what you did to try to address the symptoms. Summarize the information before the appointment so you can easily discuss it.
- Know your medications; what they are for, how long you have been taking them, and who prescribes them.
- Know your allergies; if you had a reaction, when and what occurred.
- Write questions and specific details down so you are prepared. Prioritize your concerns; you may not get to cover multiple issues so start with what is most important.
- Ask questions and make sure you understand the answer. Repeat or summarize what the medical provider said. Don’t be afraid to ask the medical provider to talk slower, louder or to repeat information if you have difficulty understanding.
- Keep a medical log of appointments, recommendations, what has been tried, what worked and what has not worked. Information is important; know your history and how to summarize it.
- If you are not comfortable with your medical provider or want a second opinion, switch providers or get a second opinion. It amazes me how many of us are uncomfortable or feel it is inappropriate to get a second opinion. Fear of questioning or offending the provider is typically the main concern. I always ask clients when they need diagnostic or repair work done on their cars or items around their house, do they get at least two assessments/estimates before making a choice? Why is our health any different? Getting a second opinion is just that; an opinion from another source. Medical providers give their best opinion, based on their knowledge and experience.
Navigating today’s busy health care system takes time and energy, which might already be low if you or your loved one have a chronic condition. Speak up and take action to meet your own or your loved one’s needs. Being prepared is the best way to get the most out of your health care team and your medical appointment.
Original Article: https://www.northeastohioboomer.com/2024-editions/make-the-most-of-medical-appointments/