Consider all of the following when visiting a Physician’s office, Out-patient care center including Urgent care and Emergency Departments (ED)

Part 1   DO”S

1. Before going to see any physician take an 8.5x11 sheet print in a large font the following:   

  *Top of the page: date of visit, your name and birth date.

   *Why the visit-main reason there to see doctor.

    *In bullet form list the following specifics about your chief compliant:

how long had the problem,

what makes it come on

makes it better,

what you have tried to help problem [ex. OTC products by name, action (s)].

    * New heading: Medications-all currently taking with dose and time you take them, include OTC

    *List active medical problem you are treated for, ex. High Blood Pressure.

Make a copy for your chart and use your copy to talk to doctor

2. Keep in your wallet a credit card size typed or clearly printed list of your current medications with Allergies in red. Other side medical history that includes problems you take medication for. Remember to be clear and honest-taking meds for high blood pressure still means you have that medical problem. Include previous surgeries. State if you are an organ donor.

3. If humanly possible-Go into the exam room alone Medical care is not a SOCIAL event!!

You are independent competent and capable. Another person is a distraction to everyone. Plus the message sent is you are not trusted alone for important matters. Commonly interpreted by office staff is that you need assistance memory-wise.

If you want something explained to your companion in the waiting room ask the nurse before you leave the exam room

4. Read all instructions before leaving the exam room/ED of hospital or back office area. Ask any question for clarification to your satisfaction. No question is stupid it is your body we are talking about!   People who do something over and over often speak fast and move fast. Remember once you are off premise you’ll have a more difficult time getting someone to explain on the phone.

Part II

Don’ts

1. Never say you “Need” a test or medication. And Don’t take the tact “What do you think…” it will be seen as a trap. Rather say “doctor do you think… “ 

2. Never complain about waiting. Doctors are human have to eat use bathroom and don’t forget all the phone calls-from ER hospital other patient emergencies. Never forget they too want to get out of work to have a ‘life.’  If doctor appears rushed, hassled or is interrupted while with you- Relax your the fellow human with “I appreciate your time” remember he needs to think about how to care for you without outside pressures.

3. You Pick your doctor-don’t trust someone else

Here are a few indications that you may react to and therefore find  a  doctor you may feel comfortable with:

*When you call for an appointment how the front office handles it.

*When you arrive,

* the office setting, cleanliness

*indicators of efficiency, organization

*staff manner, pleasant genuine or burnt out!

Remember: Staff is a reflection of the doctor—Actions and care flow from the doctor out to you

5. Never Demand antibiotics most infections especially ear and sinus infections are caused by viruses and antibiotics will not help. We have so many bacteria resistant to antibiotic as a result of prescribing them for the slightest illness.