Make the Most of Your Doctor Visits

Sometimes it seems that when you get to a certain age, your life revolves around going to the doctor. Before you know it, it's time for blood work, the dermatologist's annual once over, your mammogram and bone density test, dental cleaning, colonoscopy, allergy shots, cardiologist check up, rheumatologist visit etc. You get the picture.

Hopefully, you are healthy and do not have to see these doctors too often. However, as you age, you tend to add many more physicians to your repertoire than you did when we were younger. Therefore, it is important to make the most out of these important doctor appointments.

For some, going to the doctor is intimidating, as medical professionals can be poor communicators and make you feel cold and distant. For others, their doctor is a confident and a sounding board for everything going on in their lives. Here are a few things you can do to make the most of your visit to the doctor.

Know beforehand what you want to get out of this appointment. Is it a diagnosis, advice on how to cope with a previous condition, a new treatment plan, or just a follow up?

Be able to describe your health concerns, including all physical symptoms and even some emotional issues. Be specific, but brief.

Have on hand all medications you are taking, including dosages and brand names.

Arm yourself with a list of questions prepared beforehand, so you won't forget things you want to discuss.

Take notes and repeat back what you heard at the end of the visit to be sure you heard correctly.

Sometimes it's helpful to bring someone else with you to ask questions and interpret the information that is given you. This person is there to lend emotional support as well as to listen accurately.

Don't make decisions right away, but always get a second opinion. You would do this if the doctor's recommendation makes you feel uncomfortable, the procedure doesn't make sense to you or it's just too risky.

You and your doctor(s) are partners when it comes to your over all health.Therefore, you need to take an active role in your health care and treatment. Using your doctor's recommendations and your own personal research, your treatment/recovery is your responsibility and your key to maintaining your health for many years to come.

About the author: Amy Sherman, LMHCis the author of Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer's Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life.

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