Before your visit
Bring:
- Your photo ID and insurance card
- A list of your current medications (including vitamins and supplements, if possible, take the bottles
- Names of your pharmacy
- Any allergies
- Name of your primary care physician
- A list of your questions/concerns (write them down and bring the list)
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to check in and wear clothing that makes it easy to check blood pressure and do an exam.
Meeting your clinician
- Describe your concerns and symptoms, possible causes and next steps.
- Be very honest and open and make a list questions you for the doctor.
- Ask if you need labs, imaging, or other tests and treatment options and make sure your medications are checked and refilled, any lifestyle changes requested referrals in place, any required procedures arranged.
12
Years of care.
A lifetime of better health.
Tips to make the visit more
helpful
01
Start with your top 1–2 concerns first (time is limited)
02
Ask: “What is the most important thing I should do next?”
03
If you don’t understand something, ask for a plain-language explanation
04
Consider bringing a family member or friend (if you want support)
Key Points
- Arrive early and bring with you, your medications and all the questions and concerns.
- Stay focused when meeting with the provider and ask the questions and leave with a clear plan.
- Make sure your medications are refilled, lab tests are ordered and follow up appointment is arranged.