Many people dislike going to the doctor. For one thing, they may fear the procedures and tests they may have. However, what’s truly frustrating about a doctor’s visit is arriving, waiting for an hour, and then realizing afterward you forgot to ask the doctor about that one issue that’s been bothering you for weeks.
To make matters worse, the average doctor’s visit is 15 minutes long, barely enough time to address anything.
People are often too busy dealing with the peripheral issues of a doctor’s appointment to actually engage their physician. As a result, addressing the main medical issue usually comes in second to all of the other appointment inconveniences.
Rushing to arrive on time and filling out endless paperwork are stressful and distracting. Consequently, too often patients leave the doctor’s office unsatisfied and with questions.
However, with a little planning, patients can improve their experience at the doctor’s. Below is a short list of suggestions to help make your next doctor’s visit productive and informative.
Come prepared
A little preparation for your visit can literally save patients a headache in the long run. Coming to the doctor’s office with a list of your problems, along with the medications and supplements you’re taking, will help to make sure all of your issues are addressed.
Prior to their visit, patients should take a few minutes to sit down and record all of their current medical problems. The list will jog your memory, especially if you’re flustered.
It’s also to your benefit to come to your appointment with a detailed and updated medical history. Whether digital or hand written, having a detailed medical history on hand will help your doctor understand your issues better.
Have you been treated for this issue before? When? What was prescribed? These questions will create a clearer picture of your health and health challenges for your doctor.
Know your P.A.C.E.
Ohio State University researchers have put together a short protocol for patients. The PACE protocol serves as a guide to organizing your thoughts and helping you express your needs to your doctor. Use the PACE protocol to get the information you need from each visit:
- P rovide information about how you feel
- A sk questions if you don’t have enough information.
- C larify what you hear.
- E xpress any concerns you may have.
Following the above guide will help you to fully understand what you’ve been told. Doctors sometimes get caught up in jargon and industry terms, and using the PACE guide will allow you to make sure things are clear.
Ask Questions
It is extremely important to ask your doctor questions. Because medicine is a respected and venerated profession, patients are sometimes reluctant to question a doctor. However, asking your doctor to clarify their statements, or whether they’ve considered all of your symptoms, are critical to getting the most out of your appointment.
Also, make sure you understand the reason for any tests or lab work the doctor may schedule. For example, if you visit a Mobile Health clinic for a pre-employment screening, make sure you understand why the clinician is drawing blood or requesting a urine sample.
Doctors are people, and people make mistakes. Don’t be afraid of seeming pushy or uncooperative. Doctors would much rather clarify things with you in the moment than have you suffer later.
Patients who adequately prepare for doctor’s appointments will feel proactive and more in control of their health.
Tags: doctor's visits, effective health management, health preparation
