Preparing for a Medical Visit

Being prepared to discuss your issues and concerns with your physician are crucial. The reality is - most providers are not able to spend time with you, and thus the more prepared you are going into your visit, the more meaningful dialogue you can have with your provider to help decide what it best. The decision should be based upon your values and a thorough history and examination. Being prepared for your sessions will allow you, as a consumer of healthcare, to make a decision if your provider is right for you. Are they listening to your concerns? Do they value your desires and beliefs? Is the focus on healing yourself (when appropriate) ?

Questions You Will be / Should be asked, so prepare your answers, or better yet - be ready to state all of these when asked your history.

1. What are the symptoms you are having?

2. How do they impact your life / activities?

3. What fears do you have?

4. What treatment have you tried so far?

5. What do you want to do for treatment?

Also - Ask yourself these questions?

1. How is your sleep?

2. Are you well hydrated daily?

3. Are you eating a balanced diet?

4. Are you meeting the minimum recommendations of daily activity?

5. How is your mental health?

• if these basics are not met - there should be some discussion with your provider on how they impact your pain.

Factors to consider when making a plan TOGETHER with your provider:

1. What Is important to you?

2. Do you want to avoid surgery?

3. Have you tried medication already?

4. Have you rested already?

5. How ready are you to change your habits if asked?

6. What can they do for you?

7. What can YOU do for yourself?

The more prepared you are for a visit, the better the outcome of your visit (*hopefully*) - or if you are not able to discuss your fears, concerns, and what is important to you for your plan - you may need to find another provider. We know being aligned with your values, knowing you have been heard, and being part of the solution are key factors into outcomes of care. When these factors align the perceived outcomes of treatment are much higher!