Know Before You Go: How To Get the Most out of Visits to Your Doctor

It can be a little overwhelming to go see a doctor – whether you’re going in for a regular checkup or a more complex procedure, your first thought may be to get it over with. But if you go into the appointment prepared, with a list of things to ask, you may just have a better experience.

A little advance planning before a scheduled visit can help you take a more active part in your own care. When you know what to expect and what to ask, it’s sometimes possible to shape a treatment plan to meet your preferences and needs, and you could even save a significant amount on your costs of care.

What Should You Know Before You Go for Medical Care?

Before you go see a medical professional, the first thing to consider is which type of provider is right for my issue.

Non-emergency

• Your primary care doctor is your main point of contact for common health needs. Since they’ve worked with you before, they know your history and can help you diagnose and treat issues that arise, from coughs or digestive problems to infections. They can also order or perform tests, including bloodwork.
• A telemedicine provider can offer you convenient and affordable diagnoses and treatment advice. You can get a digital appointment without leaving your home, and some providers may have weekend or evening availability for extra flexibility.

Emergency

• An urgent care provider offers help for conditions that don’t warrant a hospital visit but need quick, serious attention. Examples of issues that may call for a trip to urgent care include: cuts or lacerations, upper respiratory infections, earaches, skin problems, and urinary tract infections, and minor injuries like sprains.
• The emergency room is for illnesses or injuries that require care immediately, such as broken bones, chest pain or pressure, possible stroke symptoms, trouble breathing, seizures, and sudden or severe abdominal pain.

As the name implies, the emergency room is for emergencies. Choosing another option for less time-sensitive conditions allows you to have a shorter wait at the office itself, as well as significantly lower costs of care.  

When you go in for a scheduled medical appointment, you may also have the option to shape your care experience further by asking questions and having a conversation with your doctor. You should take advantage of this opportunity if possible.

If you come into the appointment ready to discuss your symptoms, your medical history, your preferences, and the costs and benefits of various treatment options, you may feel like you’re truly collaborating with your doctor, rather than simply receiving instructions to follow.

How Can You Take an Active Part in Controlling Your Care Experience?

What does it mean to be prepared when you walk into a doctor’s office? It means:

• Remembering to discuss all your current health issues. If you’ve been experiencing any recent symptoms that you want answers about, you can make a list. It’s also worth knowing what medications you’re taking. Having the info written down, along with any extra questions you want to ask, will ensure you don’t forget something in the hustle and bustle of a doctor’s appointment.
• Being ready to talk about costs and options: It can be intimidating to talk to doctors about things like treatment options or potential costs – after all, they’re the professionals. But it does pay to get over this feeling and collaborate. This process is normal, and it has a name: shared decision making. You can bring up the different venues where you could have a test or procedure done, or the option to take a generic rather than name-brand drug. You can request a written, itemized estimate for your procedure that will help you make sure you’re getting exactly the care you’re looking for.
• Taking notes: You can take down information you learn while you're speaking to your doctor. This means you’ll remember any next steps or instructions around your procedure.

When you work closely with your doctor, you can build rapport and walk out of that office with a treatment plan that reflects their professional expertise while satisfying your needs. That plan can save you money while maximizing quality of care, for example by sending you to specialists instead of hospitals for tests or procedures.

Knowledge Is Power You Can Use

In non-emergency medical care and elective procedures, you have more control and options than you may think. Choosing the right kind of provider for you, and then asking important questions when you go in for your appointment, can help you have a smooth, comfortable, and cost-savvy healthcare experience.