HOW TO MAKE THE BEST OF THE MEDICAL OFFICE VISIT
OBJECTIVES:
-Make the best of the visit time (patient and physician)
-Proper transfer of information
-Goal: Reduce errors and ambiguities.
BEFORE THE VISIT:
1. Prepare a detailed list of medications*:
-Write the name of the medication accurately.
-Write the accurate dose of medications. Please note strength (mcg, mg, grams, units, etc)
-Write the frequency of taking the medication.
*Please use the Patient Portal to enter and update medication list.
2. Prepare a list of medical conditions/ procedures*:
-List each medical condition, date of diagnosis, and related complications if any (e.g. Diabetes diagnosed in 2009, complicated by diabetic kidney disease, retinopathy etc)
-List procedures, dates and facility it was performed in.
-If a device or implant has been placed (e.g. pacemakers, stents, etc.), keep with you at all times the implant ID card that describes the type, structure, and other important information.
*Please use the Patient Portal to enter medical history, fill forms, etc.
3. Prepare a list of questions.
List questions you have for your doctor about medical condition, medications, etc.
4. Place the appointment on calendar with alerts and reminders.
This is to avoid confusion about the exact time of the appointment, or forgetting appointment all together.
5. Plan to bring a family member or friend to the appointment:
This is to help receive and retain medical information / instructions.
They can also advocate for patient (ask questions that may have been missed).
DAY OF THE VISIT:
-Use the Patient Portal to update medical information, medication lists, and medical history, as well as fill forms and check in.
-Arrive 15 – 30 minutes early. Plan for traffic and parking. Allow time for arrival, check in and vitals.
-Answer physician’s questions concisely and accurately to best of your ability.
-Make sure you understand the instructions given to you by the physician and office staff. Ask if questions.
-Discuss cost of medical care with office staff / pharmacist:
=Ask for advice about generic medications vs. Co-payment vs. Pharmacy subscriptions, etc.
=Ask about more affordable options to labs and images.
*Please remember duration of appointment is limited, and office is dedicated to check in patients on the time of scheduled appointments
*Be prepared for delays while we take care of patients with higher and more urgent needs. Please be patient.
AFTER THE VISIT:
-Follow instructions for obtaining labs/ imaging studies, taking medications, etc.
-Always call back to ask questions if any arise.
-See Welcome! page to know how to communicate with the practice after hours.
OTHER RESOURCES ON PATIENT CLINICIAN COMMUNICATIONS:
– AskMe3 Institute for Healthcare Improvement.
– Speak Up Campaigns The Joint Commission.