Getting what you want from your doctor visit or how to have the best doctor visit possible!

(part 2, 4/18/07)

Third, ask for what you want. Let your doctor know what your expectations for the visit are. After all, they’ve by now let you know their expectations! Most importantly, you may not get what you want if you don’t ask for it. Doctors don’t read minds! They try to interpret but they need information to proceed.

Here’s a little secret to know: Most doctors schedule appointments in 15 minutes increments. They expect they can manage the patients concerns within that time. When they are bombarded with questions as the visit is coming to a close, they become frustrated and neither one of you wins. Therefore, I always encourage my patients to ask for more time when making the appointment so we both can have a healthy interaction. You feel you will need more time, be sure to ask for more time when you call for your appointment so they can schedule appropriately. Then both parties are not frustrated.

Fourth, participate in the visit. Don’t simply listen. Interact. Ask questions if you don’t understand something. Let your doctor know if something does or doesn’t agree with you. and don’t be shy about asking them to repeat what they said if you didn’t understand what they said. They may just assume you understand if you say nothing!!

Take notes. The information you will receive will be new and often times overwhelming when heard for the first time. To the doctor, it’s old hat. Taking notes will help you remember what was important from the visit. They take notes, why shouldn’t you???

Try to remember as you go through these steps, the visit is about you, it’s your money, and yes, it is your time, too! Use your time wisely and you’ll have a healthy outcome.

To answer the question at the beginning, who’s responsibility is it? It’s both of yours! Your doctor’s responsibility is to treat you with dignity and courtesy, along with working with you to find solutions to your concerns. Your responsibility is to be prepared to discuss your concerns, including the issues you’d like to cover in the visit.

The better prepared you are regarding the issues at hand, the more worthwhile you’ll find the office visit. Don’t hesitate to speak up, voice your opinions and have a good discussion. After all, it’s your healthcare and it’s all about you!

To your good health!