- Vipasha Pillai
- August 10, 2023
Visiting the doctor might not top everyone’s list of favourite things to do but it is essential for maintaining a healthy life. Instead of approaching it with reluctance, why not maximize the benefits? Here are a few key pointers to keep in mind for your next doctor’s appointment.
Ensure You Have All Your Health Records
Collect all relevant medical information including your current medications, test reports and a summary of your medical history. You can upload all the records on the DRiefcase app, so you don’t miss out on any health reports. This will help your doctor understand your health background.
Write Down Questions
Jot down any questions or concerns you have about your health. This way, you won’t forget anything important to ask the doctor during your visit.
Prioritize Your Concerns
If you have multiple concerns or queries, prioritize them so you can address the most important concerns within the appointment time.
Review Symptoms
Note down any specific symptoms you’ve been experiencing, how long they’ve been occurring and if there are any triggers or patterns that you’ve noticed overtime. It’s important for your doctor to know this before prescribing any medications for your treatment.
Update Medications
Make sure your medication list is up to date, including dosages and frequency. Inform your doctor about any over-the-counter medications, supplements or vitamins that you are currently taking.
Be Punctual
Try to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment slot to complete any necessary paperwork and avoid last minute rush during the appointment.
Stay Organized
Use the DRiefcase app to keep track of your medical history, appointments and test results. Upload your records on the app without any delay to avoid misplacing them. When stored in an organized manner on the app, it’s easy to access your records when you need them. This not only saves your time but also gives you peace of mind knowing that it is safely stored in one place on the app.
Ask If You’re Not Sure
If your doctor recommends some tests or procedures, feel free to ask for an explanation of why they’re needed and what the expected outcomes are.
Follow Up Regularly
If your doctor advises follow-up visits, tests or treatments, make sure you understand the next steps and schedule them as needed. Most people tend to ignore follow-up visits thinking one visit is enough to save up on the consultation charges but we recommend completing your treatment once you start it and not leave it incomplete. We understand that the cost of consultation can be a concern at times but cutting corners on your health can have more significant consequences in the long run.
Remember, effective communication with your doctor is key to receiving the best care. By being well-prepared, you’ll maximize your time during the appointment and ensure that your health concerns are properly addressed.