![]() ![]() If you have a hearing aid, make sure that it is working well and wear it. Remember to take your eyeglasses to the doctor’s visit. Many older people use glasses or need aids for hearing. Be sure you can see and hear as well as possible Use these worksheets to organize your questions and information when talking with your doctor. Also tell the doctor about any recent changes in any medications you take or the effects they have had on you. Mention any changes you have noticed in your appetite, weight, sleep, or energy level. If you have been treated in the emergency room or by a specialist, tell the doctor right away. Let your doctor know what has happened in your life since your last visit. Your doctor will ask you to sign a medical release form giving him or her permission to request your records. This is to help your new doctor get copies of your medical records. Give the new doctor all of your former doctors’ names and addresses, especially if they are in a different city. Some community organizations provide this kind of help. If you have problems understanding how to fill out any of the forms, ask for help. You may want to ask the doctor to send you a copy of the medical history form before your visit so you can fill it out at home, where you have the time and information you need to complete it. Tell the doctor about your illnesses, operations, medical conditions, and other doctors you see. Ask what to do if there is an emergency, or if you need a doctor when the office is closed. ![]() Learn what days are busiest and what times are best to call. Please call me Bob.”Īsk how the office runs. Martinez,” or “Good morning, my name is Bob Smith. When you see the doctor and office staff, introduce yourself and let them know by what name you prefer to be called. Your first meeting is a good time to talk with the doctor and the office staff about some communication basics. For the best results, let your companion know in advance how he or she can be most helpful. Or, you could ask your family member or friend to stay in the waiting room for part of the appointment. If you are alone with the doctor during or right after the physical exam, this might be a good time to raise private concerns. You may want some time alone with the doctor to discuss personal matters. She or he can take notes for you and can help you remember what the doctor said.ĭon't let your companion take too strong a role. Your companion can remind you what you planned to discuss with the doctor if you forget. Let your family member or friend know in advance what you want from your visit. Sometimes it is helpful to bring a family member or close friend with you. Read and share this infographic and spread the word about ways that may help foster healthy aging. Don’t put off the things that are really on your mind until the end of your appointment-bring them up right away! The Talking With Your Doctorworksheets can help. For example, 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. The following tips will make it easier for you and your doctor to cover everything you need to talk about. Be sure you can see and hear as well as possibleĪ 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’ve seen for years.Consider bringing a family member or friend to the doctor’s visit. ![]()
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