Making the Most of Your Doctor's Office Visits
Most people dread going to the doctor's office, usually because they don't like the long waits or they fear getting bad news. Either way, most of us do not look forward to going, but we know it is part of taking charge of our health. So, why not make the most of your next doctor's office visit? Well, there's one key word here: Preparation.
Here's some tips that might help you feel better about - and get more out of - your next trip to the doctor's office.
Write It Down
Many people who already deal with chronic ailments have learned that keeping a health journal can be the best way to remember important details. In this journal, you might record new symptoms and conditions, side effects of your medications, any changes in your body or how you feel. A health journal is an excellent way to be able to answer the question, "What has changed since your last visit?"If you're going to the doctor for a new condition, bring a list of symptoms. You'll need to be prepared to answer questions about your condition, such as when it started, how you feel, where you feel pain, etc. (A health journal comes in handy here.) Tell the doctor how long you've had this condition and what, if anything, makes the condition better or worse.
Also create a list of questions to ask the doctor about your general health or current condition. Ask about the big issues first, so you won't forget to ask anything important. Then, don't forget the "little questions." We've heard it said before, "There are no dumb questions." And there aren't, not when it comes to your health.
Bring Help to Record the Office Visit
Talking about a medical concern or illness can be stressful and it's not always easy to remember what the doctor or nurse may tell you, so you'll want to bring along help. Consider taking along a pad of paper or notebook, as you want to make clear and concise notes on what your doctor advises.You might also want to bring a close friend or family member to your appointment. Take someone you can trust and who can help you remain calm. You want to choose someone who can listen, remember, and think clearly to help you sort through everything the doctor has told you. Choose someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing your medical history and current medical status.
During your appointment, if your doctor uses unfamiliar medical terms, ask for an explanation in "laymen's terms", so that you understand. Don't be hesitant to ask the physician to repeat instructions and time frames so you are sure you heard correctly.
If your doctor prescribes a new drug for your condition, be prepared with a series of questions to learn about the drug, such as:
- What's the name of the drug?
- How will it help me?
- Is there a generic version that will accomplish the same results?
- What it the best way and time to take it?
- How long should I take the drug?
- What are the side effects of the drug?
- What should I do if I experience a side effect?
- What should I do if I forget to take my medication?
- How does the new drug interact with my current medications?
Learn What You Can Prior to the Visit
Today there are so many ways to get medical information, be sure to learn what you can about your condition or what your symptoms might suggest is the problem. There are several tools provided by Kellogg to assist you:- Blue HealthConnection – Call toll-free 1-800-775-BLUE (2583) or 1-800-240-3050 for the hearing impaired to talk with a nurse coach 24 hours a day, or listen to an audiotape on any of 1,600 health topics.
- Subimo Healthcare Advisor™ – Visit this website for all kinds of information, including sample questions to ask your doctor related to different health conditions and prescription drug cost comparisons. https://www1.subimo.com/hca/app/kellogg/View/Start?Referer=subimo (This is a long website name to remember, so try saving it in your “Favorites” section so you can just go to the site by just clicking on the site name in "Favorites.")
- The People Services Center – Call toll-free 1-877-454-7287, or 660-7553 in Battle Creek, to talk to a representative who can suggest where to find help.
Take Charge of Your Health
Being proactive during a doctor's office visits adds to your sense of control about your health and well being. These tips are just some ideas to help you get the most out of your trips to the doctor's office. Remember, you are the expert when it comes to knowing your health...so use all the resources and tools available to help you find what you need to live your best life!