When preparing for a visit to the doctor, remembering all of the things you will need to bring along to the visit can be challenging. On top of that, you’ll also have to present medical history, clinic visits, personal information, and other essential documents upon arrival. Not only is finding and remembering all of this information hard to do, but it’s also frustrating when you’re not prepared.
To help prepare for your next check-up, Origin Active Lifestyle Communities would like to share three tips on how to improve your experience with physicians.
Plan Ahead
When going to the doctor, it’s common for many to forget to bring along essential things such as documentation or personal information. Remember that the physician’s office may want to see personal information that verifies your identity such as your identification and health insurance information.
Think about what the doctor and clinical staff may ask for during the duration of your visit. It can help to make a list of a few things that you usually bring to the office and leave them on the counter in the morning to remind you. You can also take notes on your phone so that you can write things down on the go!
Be Honest
It is common for many people to be dishonest with their doctor, which can be problematic in the long-run. Upon entering the doctor’s office, people will begin to think of acceptable answers to common medical questions in an attempt to avoid conflict. Not only does this create a situation in which you’re being untruthful or omitting information, but it can lead the wrong course of health-related actions based upon your statements.
When you visit the doctor, it is important to practice honesty with them to answer their questions to the best of your ability. If you’re forthcoming, it allows the doctor to narrow down what may be the problem, instead of sending them in an entirely different direction of diagnosis. Although it can be hard, tell the truth; it’s for the best when it comes to your health!
Address Your Concerns
Too often, people will leave the doctor’s office and remember that they had forgotten to ask about a particular medication or another important question they had on their mind. In order to avoid this situation, it’s best to take notes of any questions you may have about medications, habits, physical activity, or any other health concerns.
Another reason why senior health concerns aren't addressed is that you may be too easy going or shy. This can cause you to neglect asking essential questions, which can be detrimental to your health. Make sure you’re asking all the right questions, even if they seem silly to ask. Sometimes, the answers to your questions aren’t so obvious, and the doctor may have forgotten to give you instruction, so speak up when you feel you need to!
At Origin, senior health is our number one priority, and it should be yours, too! It’s essential to visit the doctor when you have a medical issue, so it’s best to use your visit to learn more about improving and maintaining your health! Our communities promote engagement, a healthy diet, and an active lifestyle that work to enhance your retirement experience. If you’d like to learn more about Origin and the lifestyle we offer, please contact us!
