Tips for an Amazing 7 Minute Doctor Visit
Have you ever left your doctor's appointment feeling like you didn't get all of your questions answered?
It is no secret that most office visits are limited to about 7 minutes. Being prepared for your appointment is the key to having an amazing 7 minute visit with your doctor. These planning tips may help you focus on your top concerns.
It is no secret that most office visits are limited to about 7 minutes. Being prepared for your appointment is the key to having an amazing 7 minute visit with your doctor. These planning tips may help you focus on your top concerns.
THE DAY BEFORE YOUR OFFICE VISIT
Write a list of questions to ask during the office visit. Be sure to give your doctor a copy. Focus on your top 2-3 priority needs. For example:
* Get your paperwork ready. Make a list of all the medications you are taking. Be sure to include vitamins and supplements in your list.
* If you are having any medical tests, review special instructions about food and medications. Call your doctor if the directions are not clear.
* Get your paperwork ready. Make a list of all the medications you are taking. Be sure to include vitamins and supplements in your list.
* If you are having any medical tests, review special instructions about food and medications. Call your doctor if the directions are not clear.
THE DAY OF YOUR OFFICE VISIT
* Be sure you have the following items before you walk out the door:
blood sugar meter, blood sugar logs, blood pressure test logs, medication lists & insurance cards
* Be sure to give your records to the medical assistant when you enter the exam room.
* When the doctor gets in the room, start with some "hellos" but don't waste time talking about unrelated things like the weather. This will take time away from the visit.
* Don't let the doctor do all the talking. Communication is a two-way street.
* Tell the doctor about your most important issues as early in the visit as possible. Your doctor may not be able to answer all your questions but can answer your top 2-3 questions.
* Take notes or ask to use a tape recorder. You may want to bring a trusted friend or family member with you to listen, ask questions, and remind you of the things you wanted to talk about.
blood sugar meter, blood sugar logs, blood pressure test logs, medication lists & insurance cards
* Be sure to give your records to the medical assistant when you enter the exam room.
* When the doctor gets in the room, start with some "hellos" but don't waste time talking about unrelated things like the weather. This will take time away from the visit.
* Don't let the doctor do all the talking. Communication is a two-way street.
* Tell the doctor about your most important issues as early in the visit as possible. Your doctor may not be able to answer all your questions but can answer your top 2-3 questions.
* Take notes or ask to use a tape recorder. You may want to bring a trusted friend or family member with you to listen, ask questions, and remind you of the things you wanted to talk about.