Your First Visit to a New Doctor

Seeing a new doctor for the first time can be intimidating, especially if you've just been diagnosed with an illness or injury. The most important thing to remember is to ask questions so that you can set appropriate expectations and open communication channels with your doctor from the start. This will help keep you on track as an empowered and informed patient. Make sure you understand each of your physician's answers. Don't be passive. If you're not getting what you want, be clear about it. Above all, you must trust your instincts about what's right for you. If you feel relaxed and understood when you visit your doctor's office, you'll most likely receive excellent healthcare. Remember that only you can know what's working for you and that a periodic assessment of the care you're getting will keep your doctor-patient relationship on track.

Must-Do's for Your First Visit to a New Doctor

• Have your medical records from your previous physician sent to your new physician one month before your scheduled visit.
• Ask and set the expectation that your new doctor will review these documents before your first visit.
• Be prepared. Maximize your first visit by creating a list of no more than two to three symptomatic complaints and a document that includes your pertinent medical history, family history, last physical exam, significant lab tests, medical allergies, and medication list with doses.
• Discuss with your physician your hospital preference, who would make your medical decisions if you are incapacitated, and whether you would want to be resuscitated in the event you should stop breathing or your heart stops.
• Bring a notebook so you can write down what the doctor says about any diagnoses and treatment plans. Make sure you completely understand the plan before your doctor leaves the room.
• If you require any tests or specialist consultations, ask your doctor to call you for normal and abnormal results.
• Document these results in your notebook with the date and the reason for the test.