Doctor’s office visits for health issues are scary, often confusing, and too often complicated with medical terms we don’t understand. And we are generally ill or have health issues that will interfere with clear thinking. Actually, even if it is a routine health check, what I am going to suggest is applicable.
Obviously I can’t give you answers to medical questions because each person’s situation is unique. I can, however, give you some ideas for making the most of your visit with a physician. Here are my thoughts:
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Do you have your advance directive completed? Do it before you need it. Actually, anyone over 18 should have a prepared advance directive. We never know when it might be necessary.
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In today’s medical environment, we tend to have many physicians. A primary doctor comes first, but then you’ll have a specialist for whatever the actual illness or illnesses may be. Have a conversation with ALL of your physicians as to your thoughts about treatment and when you want to stop aggressive treatment and switch to comfort care. Give them a copy of your advance directive for their records. Make sure your family and significant others also know your wishes and have copies.
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It will be challenging to ensure that all the different physicians treating different parts of your body are working together. For each physician you meet with, make sure they have a record of ALL the physicians and their plans of care. Our healthcare system generally has computerized online records but all of your physicians and consultations may not belong to the same clinic. There is often not one database that everyone has access to.
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Always take someone with you to every doctor’s appointment. You want another set of ears and mind. Have that person take notes or even record the visit so you can not only talk about it later, but have a record of the visit. Most physician’s offices give you a printed summary of the visit, but you want a more personal interpretation and record of what transpired during the visit.
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Make a list of questions before you go to any appointment. Read each question directly to the physician and record or have the person who has come with you take notes.
The one doctor who becomes your friend and confidant is fading from the medical scene. It is difficult to understand “medicalese” on a good day. When we are ill, frightened, and not at our best physically or mentally, we need the extra support I have suggested above.
Something more about… How to Get More Out of Every Doctor’s Appointment
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