Making the most of a doctor visit
A common response to the question, “how are you?” is often a polite and expedient, “I’m fine.” But this response is not always appropriate when the question is coming from your doctor. Many people go to the doctor with concerns that are completely forgotten when the doctor enters the room. To avoid wasting the doctor’s time and your time, consider these suggestions before going to your next appointment.
Be prepared
Write down the reason that you made the appointment to see the doctor. There is usually one main concern but also write down any additional concerns. Remember that the doctor can’t read your mind. By stating your concerns, the appointment will be focused on what is most important.
Gather details
Providing the doctor with detailed information about your concern makes it easier to diagnose a problem. Instead of noting that your back hurts, describe when the pain started, how often it occurs, and what activities trigger the pain. It might even be helpful to keep a journal for the days before the appointment so you can accurately describe the frequency and intensity of the symptoms.
Provide a history
Doctors see many patients every day and as much as they would like to know each one personally, it isn’t possible. Bring a list of all medications and supplements you take. Be sure to include the dosage and times they are taken. It is also helpful to record over-the-counter remedies being taken and note whether they provide relief. Create a medical history that includes the dates of past serious illness, surgery or chronic conditions. If a close relative experienced a serious health issue, it is helpful to have that information available also. Write down the dates of any recent stressful events like a death of a loved one or a career change. Having this accurate information can help the doctor see the complete picture when diagnosing the problem.
Be clear from the start
Begin the doctor visit by stating your main concern and explain why you are worried. Refer to your list if you begin to feel flustered. Don’t feel like you are being overly sensitive or needy. The role of the doctor is to provide relief and this can only happen if the problem is clearly stated.
Honesty is important
When the doctor asks for personal information, don’t respond with what you think is the answer he wants to hear. Always give the honest answer. If you don’t exercise, admit it. If you started smoking again, give the time line when it happened. The best diagnosis is based on the most accurate information so be sure to tell the truth.
Ask questions
If you doctor uses an abbreviation or procedure name that is unknown to you, ask for an explanation. If the answer is not clear, keep asking questions until it is clear. It is also a good idea to ask about side effects, recovery and other issues connected to any treatment.
Bring support
Doctor visits can be overwhelming for some people. If you are worried that you aren’t going to remember what is said or are nervous about asking questions, bring a spouse or friend to help you get through the visit.
After the visit
Although it may seem obvious, it is worth stating that it is best to follow the doctor’s orders. Take medications as directed. Begin therapy that is suggested. Even if you feel that the directions won’t work, follow them anyway. If you don’t see improvement after several days, you can call the doctor for guidance. Today’s medical offices usually provide a printout with instructions or have an online chart where it is possible to double-check the instructions and make sure you aren’t missing anything.
A team approach
Teaming up with your doctor for proper health advice has many benefits. When a serious medical event or surgery occurs, it is wise to continue this team approach by choosing to recover at a short-term care facility. Glenview Terrace has earned a reputation for providing top-notch care following a hospital stay. Its team of professionals will work with your doctor to carry out all instructions for a safe and effective time of recovery. They provide one-on-one physical, occupational and speech therapies seven days a week with the goal of returning the patient home as quickly as possible. The expert nursing team and support staff are ready with round-the-clock care for every need that arises from wound care to pain management.
This specialized care is offered in an elegant environment. The well-appointed rooms and suites are filled with custom-designed furnishings and include a deluxe bathroom with a private shower. Guests are pampered with a variety of amenities including attentive concierge service, morning coffee and newspaper delivered daily to the room, diverse menu selections and much more. The attractive grounds and tranquil fountain are just some of the extras that go into creating an inviting environment for recovery.
When looking for a team that can help you get back to an independent lifestyle, consider Glenview Terrace. For more information or to arrange a tour, visit glenviewterrace.com or call 847-729-9090.