Doctor Tips
Before you go to the doctor, make a list of what you would like to discuss. The doctor is usually on a tight schedule and the more organized you are, the more time you'll have with him/her.

It is not recommended to talk to your child in advance about going to the doctor. It produces anxiety and fear. Be honest with what will happen, but don't focus on the less-desirable things such as shots or getting undressed.

Before going to visit the doctor, be sure you have a typed page of your entire health history. It can save you a lot of time and frustration in trying to remember everything.

Ask a lot of questions and be inquisitive. Doctors can use a lot of technical jargon. Ask them kindly to explain what they mean and to give examples. Ask them for additional literature if necessary. They usually have many brochures in their office that will help explain more about the condition discussed.

Go over with your child what he or she might expect in the doctors office, like the doctor looking in their ears or gently putting a small wooden stick in their mouth. This will help prepare the child. It takes away some of the unknown and hence takes away some of the fear.

Don't be afraid to ask what the treatment will cost. Be sure you have an understanding of what insurance will cover and what it won't.

If you feel uncomfortable with a particular doctor, do not hesitate to get dressed and leave. You owe them no explanation. Ultimately you have your own best interests to look out for. Trust your intuition!

Keep a list of your prescriptions handy at all times!

It can be as simple as a sheet of paper with columns that show

NAME OF MEDICINE...CONDITION USED FOR...DOSAGE...PRESCRIBING DOCTOR
AS
Lasix Hypertension 40 mg 2x/day Dr. Smith

(like this)

Be sure to include any OTC meds your doctor's recommended for you, such as low-dose aspirin or supplemental vitamins.

Many doctors insist you bring the list to make sure you're taking your medications properly. It's also useful if you need to refill a prescription and can't or don't remember which one you need!

Its been said many times but GET A SECOND OPINION! For bigger decisions and more complicated or involved diagnosis such as the need for surgery, it is always a good idea to get a second opinion from another doctor. This may just save you a lot of money and/or unnecessary anguish.

In addition to prescription medications you are taking, be sure to let your doctor know if you take any daily supplements such as a multi-vitamin. These can sometimes effect how your medication works.

Don’t forget to follow up with your doctor. Let them know if you have a question you thought of on your way home, or if you are having a reaction to the medication you are taking. If you don’t reach them, leave a message to have them call you back.

Ask your doctor about the medication they are prescribing you. Ask them if they know how much it costs. Ask them if there is a generic form of it. Let them know if it is out of your price range so that they can prescribe something that is either cheaper – but still effective – or that your insurance will cover.

Ask your doctor about clinical trials. There are some perks to being a part of a trial, in that you may get paid to go see the doctor, or you will get your medications for free. Plus the added bonus of knowing that by your being in the trial you are helping medical science learn more so they can help more people.