Think about all the things we women prepare for so that things go smoother in life. In med school I would prepare hours for a test. In residency I would prepare for a procedure or patient. In my personal life, I make preparations for the next day for my children, husband and self. We all prepare grocery lists for shopping. But, how many of you prepare for your visit with your doctor? Sure you call in and tell the receptionist what you need to be seen for, but beyond that, what do you do?

Patients sometimes apologize for lists they bring with them, even though they are oftentimes very helpful. But it goes beyond the list. Before you call for that appointment, do you think about all the issues or expectations for that visit? To optimize your time with your doctor, I think you should. The staff listens to your request for the appointment and allots time for you. Your doctor usually has instructed the staff how much time certain issues take. By voicing these issues up front, you will typically have enough time with your physician.

The more organized the patient, the more effective the visit. Now I know things happen and not all visits are predictable. Wouldn’t it be convenient if one could plan a sinus or bladder infection? Sure. But, I am talking about the annual visit or medical check. Ask about if testing or laboratory tests could be done prior to the visit. It saves phone calls and you can discuss the results with your doctor, not their staff.

Think about insurance card, co-pay, family history, medicine lists with dosage, new health information, new contact or addresses, health screen results, etc. The prepared patient is one that typically makes for a successful visit. 

Ask your doctor what you can do to optimize your time with them.