8 of 33 A basic plan can help you make the most of your appointment, whether you are starting with a new doctor or continuing with the doctor you have seen for years. Make a List and Prioritize Your Concerns: Do you have a new symptom you want to ask the doctor about? Do you want to get a flu shot? Are you concerned about how a treatment is affecting your daily life? If you have more than a few items to discuss, put them in order and ask about the most important ones first. Don’t put off the things that are really on your mind until the end of your appointment—bring them up right away. Take Information with You to the Doctor: Put all your prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements in a bag and bring them with you. Or, bring a list of everything you take and the dose. You should also take your insurance cards, the names and phone numbers of other doctors you see, and your medical records if the doctor doesn’t already have them. Consider Bringing a Family Member or Friend to the Doctor’s Office: Let your family member or friend know in advance what you want from your visit. Your companion can remind you what you planned to discuss with the doctor if you forget. They can take notes for you and can help you remember what the doctor said. Keep Your Doctor Up to Date: Let your doctor know what has happened in your life since your last visit. If you have been treated in the emergency room or by a specialist, tell the doctor right away. Mention any changes you have noticed in your appetite, weight, sleep or energy level. Also, tell the doctor about any recent changes in any medications you take or the effects they have had on you. Prepare for Your Doctor’s Visit Before You Go How You Pay for Care Special Programs and Services Learn More Know What to Ask Your Doctor For convenience, below are links to worksheets to organize your questions, family and medical history, and information when talking with your doctor. Family Health History Worksheet: A family medical history can identify people with a higher-than-usual chance of having common disorders, such as heart disease, diabetes and more. Questions to Consider When Choosing a New Doctor: Use this worksheet to answer some questions for and about a new doctor you are considering. Life Changes to Discuss with Your Doctor Worksheet: It is important to tell your doctor about any changes in your life since your last appointment. Use this worksheet to help you record what you want to discuss with your doctor during your next visit. Prioritizing Concerns to Share with Your Doctor Worksheet: Use this form to help organize your thoughts about any health or other concerns you want to discuss with your doctor. Tracking Your Medications Worksheet: This worksheet can help you keep track of different medicines, including vitamins, over-the-counter drugs and prescriptions.
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