Preparing for a Visit with Your Healthcare Provider

Do you find that you make an appointment with your healthcare provider, only to forget half your questions once you’re in the exam room? Does your healthcare provider ask you questions during a visit that you can’t answer? Preparing for a healthcare provider visit can help you get the most out of your healthcare. Below are tips for helping you prepare for a visit to your healthcare provider.

Gather your medical history

To do this:

• Write down all the medicines and supplements you take. Include the dose and number of times a day you take it. Or, if you wish, just put everything in a bag and take it with you.

• Make a list of names of other healthcare providers you see for treatment.

• Make a list of your medical conditions, past hospitalizations, surgeries, and allergies. 

• Make a copy of all your medicines, allergies, and surgeries for your healthcare provider to have on file. 

Gather your family history

On a piece of paper, write your name and the names of your brothers and sisters. Below that, write the names of your parents, aunts, and uncles. Below that, write the names of your grandparents. Next to each name, write the person’s date of birth and list any health problems you know about. If the person has died, note the date and cause of death.

Organize your thoughts

Make a list of what you want to tell your healthcare provider and questions you want to ask. Mention how you’ve been feeling since your last visit. Speak up about any changes you’ve noticed, new symptoms you have, or anything else the healthcare provider should know.

A family member or friend can help

Ask a family member or friend to come with you to the healthcare provider. They can:

• Drive you to and from your visit

• Make you feel comfortable and more confident

• Remind you what you planned to tell or ask

• Take notes

• Help you remember what the healthcare provider says