HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT TO THE DOCTOR

When you inform your doctor about how you are managing your condition and when you bring specific questions to his or her attention, you will notice an improvement in your doctor’s office visit. Not only will you get the information you need and get answers to your questions, but you and your doctor will have a higher level of satisfaction! Follow these tips and use the chart below as a reference.

What Everyone Can Do

• Write down the questions you want to ask the doctor and bring the list with you to the visit.
• Bring a written record of your symptoms and of the medication or methods you have used to relieve symptoms – keep a journal or diary. Be sure to include all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as herbal remedies.
• Ask if you should make any changes to your current treatment or medication.
• Ask the doctor to repeat or explain anything that you don’t understand, and ask for written instructions.
• Be honest about whether or not you have been following the doctor’s instructions. If you haven’t, then explain to your doctor why so that he or she can make modifications if appropriate.
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations so that he or she can get a true picture of how you are managing your condition.