How to prepare for a doctor's visit

Today it can be difficult just to get in and see the doctor and worse yet, once you are there your doctor may only spend about 10-15 minutes with you. This means that unless you are seeing your doctor, for an urgent problem you need to prepare, for your next doctor's visit. You want to make sure that you utilize your time with your doctor in the best possible manner. Keep in mind that while he or she will see a lot of patients in one day, hopefully this will be the only doctor's visit you make for awhile. Coming prepared to your next doctor's visit increases the chances that you will leave having been satisfied with the care you received. Here is what you need to know about how to prepare for a doctor's visit-

• Plan to be honest-If you are not going to tell your doctor everything or even outright lie at your next doctor's visit, thenyou might as well stay home. Many people are embarrassed that their doctor is going to judge them so they withhold important information that could make a difference in their care. You need to keep in mind that your doctor is not going to judge you, in fact he or she has probably heard far worse, then whatever you are going to report. Its critically important that you let your doctor know what your actual lifestyle choices are. This way, the doctor can give you the best recommendations, for a healthier you.
• Make a written list of questions-Something tends to happen to even the most confident and well composed patient, when they enter the doctor's office. We all become a bit tongue tied and forgetful once we are alone with our doctor. Having your questions written down will not only save time, but get you the information you really want to know.Taking the time to write your questions down before you go will also help you to focus on what you really want to know from the doctor.
• Stick with what the doctor can do-No matter how booked your doctor is, chances are he or she will only have limited time with you. If you have concerns with billing, insurance, or some other non-medical matter, then you need to take it up with the medical staff, not with the doctor himself. Very few doctors are familiar with the intricacies of their medical office. This is not the time to bring up anything that doesn't have to do directly with your health. If you have a related non-medical problem, then utilize the doctor's staff to help you and save your office visit time, for health matters.
• Set a limit-If you are needing to visit the doctor for several chronic problems you will need to prioritize. Experts advise that you deal with the main two problems that you have and schedule another visit, to deal with everything else. Remember that your doctor is human just like anyone else, and a long recitation of problems, may not get the care that you need or deserve.
• Be on time-While you may still find yourself waiting in the doctor's office, it can only help if you are on time. A good doctor does his or her best to stick to the schedule, so your prompt arrival can make your visit a whole lot better. If you are on time, you are much more likely to get a full doctor's visit, rather then being squeezed in. This will give you the chance to really have a conversation withyour doctor about the most important health issues.