Doctor's Office | New York

Prioritize your Concerns before visiting the Doctor's Office

List the topics you want to talk about. Do you, for instance, want to consult your doctor about a recent symptom? Would you like to receive a flu shot? Are you worried about the impact a particular treatment is having on your day-to-day activities? Put your topics in order and start with the most crucial ones if you have more than a few to discuss. Bring up the issues that are actually on your mind as soon as possible; don't wait until the conclusion of your appointment. The pre-visit worksheets for talking to your doctor may be useful.

Bringing Information When you Visit the Doctor

Some medical professionals advise packing a suitcase with all of your prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal medications or supplements. Some people advise bringing a list of all of your medications along with the dosage. If the doctor doesn't already have them, you should also bring your insurance cards, the names and contact information of any other doctors you visit, and your medical documents.

Bringing a Family Member or Friend to the Doctor's Office

Occasionally, it can be beneficial to invite a member of your family or a close friend. Inform your family member or friend in advance of your expectations for the visit. If you forget what you intended to talk about with the doctor, your companion can remind you. She or he can record the doctor's words for you and aid with your memory.

Avoid letting your buddy play a dominant role. You and the doctor will be the only people there. You might desire some private time with the doctor to talk about private issues.  Additionally, it could be a good idea to bring up personal problems if you are alone with the doctor during or shortly after the physical examination.

Alternately, you could request that a member of your family or a close friend spend some time with you in the waiting area. Give your companion advance notice of how he or she can be most helpful for the greatest results.

Starting with a New Doctor/PCP

• A excellent moment to discuss some fundamentals of communication with the doctor and the office staff is during your initial visit.

Identify Yourself

• Introduce yourself and let the doctor and the office staff know how you wish to be addressed when you meet them.
• For instance, 'Good morning, my name is Robert Smith,' or 'Hello, my name is Mrs. Lamb.'

Learn How the Office Runs

• How does the office operate? Find out the busiest days and the ideal times to call. Find out what to do in an emergency or if you require medical attention after hours when the office is closed.

Share Your Medical History/Request Access from an Old PCP

• Describe your medical background. Inform the physician of any illnesses, surgeries, medical conditions, and other physicians you currently see.  
• Before your appointment, you might wish to ask the doctor to send you a copy of the medical history form so you can fill it out at home where you have the necessary time and information.
• Ask for assistance if you need it to complete any of the forms if you are having trouble. This kind of assistance is offered by several neighborhood organizations.

Share Former Medical Professionals

• Give the new doctor the names and addresses of all of your previous physicians, especially if they are located in separate cities.
• This will facilitate getting copies of your medical records for your new doctor. You will be asked to sign a medical release form allowing your doctor access to your medical records.

Search for Specialists Nearby

• Your primary physician of PCP may not be able to carry-out or provide guidance on more specialized requests.  Ask your Doctor who they recommend nearby. 
• In addition, Fidelis Care has a custom Doctor Search Tool provided below, which we also highly recommend for residents of New York State.