Want to make the most of your next doctor’s visit? Doing a little homework can go a long way. Here are some things to jot down before your next visit:
- Make a list of your concerns and questions
- Prioritize your list
- Write details of your symptoms, i.e., when they started, frequency, intensity
- Take a current list of all medications with the dosage included, supplements, vitamins, and any over-the-counter medications
- Inform your doctor of any recent changes in your health, stress, or sleep patterns as well as any changes with your lifestyle (i.e., difficulty paying for prescriptions or utilities, changes in family dynamics)
Having a list will help you communicate better about your concerns, remember all your questions, and better understand your diagnosis and the treatment plan. Be sure to follow up as needed after the appointment.
Questions for You
Your provider may have a few questions for you about topics known as Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). This is not intended to pry, but to better serve your health needs. Over the years, it has been found that factors such as these can have a big impact on your health:
- Housing Instability
- Food Insecurity
- Financial Resource Strain
- Social Connections
- Intimate Partner Violence
- Stress
- Transportation
Here are some examples of how they can influence your health:
- If your doctor orders testing that is only done at an outside facility and you have limited transportation, this would be important to know, so adjustments could be made.
- If there is a change in a prescription that is likely to have an added cost and you are already struggling to pay rent and utilities, there may be other options that could reduce the cost.
- If your food source is running low, there are many resources available throughout North Carolina that can provide food.
As you can see, there are many factors that can affect your health, so it’s important to answer honestly. Your provider can put you in touch with helpful resources such as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, which offers a variety of assistance through the Division of Aging as well as Low-Income Services. And of course, you can always reach out to your Healthcare Concierge if you need more information.
