Optimal Conditions

Along with these lists, bring any other information the doctor or staff may need such as insurance cards, names and phone numbers of other doctors, and x-rays or medical records (if the doctor doesn’t already have them).

Taking small steps to provide valuable information may very well keep down your stress level, and possibly your blood pressure!

Make sure the ability to see and hear as well as possible exists.

Many individuals use glasses or hearing aids.  Remember to check and make sure to have them with you for the doctor’s visit.  If you or the client wears a hearing aid, make sure it is working well. 

Let the doctor and staff members know if there is difficulty seeing or hearing.

For example

• You or your client may want to say: “My hearing loss makes it hard to hear everything you’re saying.  It helps if you look at me while speaking, and speak slowly.” 

• When we are anxious we tend not to hear everything the doctor is saying.

Be on the same wave length.

If you are acting as an advocate for someone else, be sure that both you and the individual understand and agree on what will be discussed before going to the appointment. 

Get the most out of your appointment time - be prepared.

Don’t leave things to chance and memory.