By Joanne Hoffer, M.B.A.
If you come prepared for your doctor visit and know what to ask for, the visit can be better for your doctor and for you. Here are some tips to make your visit as productive as possible!
Make a List of ALL Prescriptions
Show your doctor a list of everything your loved one (or you), is taking—not just what that individual doctor has prescribed. Often times, one doctor is unaware of what another doctor has prescribed. Worse yet, if you fill these different prescriptions at different times or at different pharmacies, the pharmacist can miss active interactions between drugs. By creating a complete list, and filling them with one pharmacy, you can help to ensure all your medications are working safely together.
Check Your Inventory Needs (Prescriptions!)
Before you head to the doctor, head over to the medicine cabinet. Make a note of everything that you will need a refill for. Remember not to get down to the last few tablets before you ask for a refill. Having this information will save you and your doctor’s office a lot of time on the telephone. It’s the largest volume of calls many offices receive.
Make a List of Any Questions
Don’t just begin making the list of all your questions right before your visit. Keep a list on your refrigerator or near your phone, and jot down what you need to ask on a daily basis, as questions pop into your head.
Start Asking Questions as SOON as You Arrive
Not all questions you have need to be answered by the doctor directly. Often, a nurse can answer your questions, and may have more time to explain. Usually, a nurse will come in to take your “vitals” –your blood pressure and pulse rate before the physician comes in to examine you. Start asking him or her any questions on your list. If she/he doesn’t know the answer, she’ll/he’ll suggest you ask the doctor. Nurses are a great resource!
Make sure YOU Go to ALL Appointments
If you are a caregiver, it is very helpful for you to attend all appointments with the person whom you are caring for. It is time consuming, but hearing what the doctor has to say first hand helps avoid issues or confusion/misinterpretation of treatment.
The doctor may have questions for you, and you may have caregiving questions of your own. Don’t forget your list, too! Some caregivers have found that it’s easiest to schedule all doctor appointments on the same time—such as a Monday—and work 4-day workweeks if possible. Other options include early morning or after work appointments. Your doctor may be more flexible than you think!
Don’t be Shy
Don’t be shy or embarrassed to discuss anything with your doctor. Whether it’s a question about sexual function or the price of a drug, you should not be afraid to bring it up. Chances are she’s heard it before.
Ask for a Home Healthcare Visit
If you are caring for somebody on Medicare, ask the doctor if he or she can prescribe a home healthcare visit. It is free. Your doctor’s office will help you set up a visit with somebody who will evaluate your home for dangers and will offer suggestions as to how you can improve the safety and comfort of the person you are caring for. Common household hazards, such as a loose rugs or slippery showers can cause broken hips and other injuries among the elderly.
Your home healthcare visit can truly open your eyes as to daily tips and ideas for keeping your loved one safe!
Find Out if Your Doctor’s Office Has a Wheelchair
Many doctors’ offices have a wheelchair to help patients get from their cars to their office. If you are caring for somebody who uses a wheelchair, find out if your doctor has one. This can save you the trouble (and backache!) of bringing your own.
Remember, your healthcare professional is your partner. Both of you have the goal of keeping your loved ones as healthy as possible. Use these tips to make the most of your visit.
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