Nine ways to make every minute count

Nine ways to make every minute count

1. If you have never had an appointment with the health care provider before, confirm the directions and contact information.
2. Before the appointment, ask if you can eat or drink. Ask if there are forms that you will be required to fill out prior to the appointment, and ask how long your appointment will take. You will also find it helpful to find out what information you need to bring to the appointment.
3. What is your goal in setting up the appointment? Do you just need to have a check-up, or get immunized for the flu. Do you have a specific health concern or were you referred by another health care provider?
4. If you were referred, list any specific questions that you may have regarding your condition including treatment, side-effects, prognosis. Sometimes it is helpful to take time prior to the appointment to write down your questions so you don’t forget the questions you want to ask. Sample questions may include:
   • Why do I need this treatment?
   • What happens during treatment?
   • What are the risks of treatment?
   • What are alternatives to surgery or treatment?
   • How soon does treatment have to start?
   • What can I expect from the outcome of the treatment?
5. Create a diary or notes about your condition – Your notes should contain information about how your body feels, digestive changes, the occurrence, location and type of pain. Also include a description of your sleeping habits, eating habits, or any other condition is of concern.
6. Take a pen and paper to take notes at your appointment.
7. You may want to take another person with you who can take notes.
8. Create a list of all medications and other remedies that you are currently taking. Include the name of the medication, the dose, when and how often you take it. Make sure you include all the over-the-counter vitamins, minerals, herbs and other medications.
9. If you have a record of your health history, it would be beneficial to bring that along as well. If you don’t have a health history, you may want to create one.