| Your first meeting
is the best time to begin communicating positively with your new doctor.
When you see the doctor and office staff, introduce yourself and let
them know how you like to be addressed. The first few appointments
with your new doctor also are the best times to:
Learn the basics of the
office--Ask the office staff how the office runs. Learn what
days are busiest and what times are best to call. Ask what to do
if there is an emergency, or when the office is closed.
Share your medical history--Tell
the doctor about your illnesses or operations, medical conditions
that run in your family, and other doctors you see. You may want
to ask for a copy of the medical history form before your visit
so you have all the time and information you need to complete it.
Your new doctor may ask you to sign a medical release form to get
copies of your medical records from doctors you have had before.
Be prepared to give the new doctor your former doctors' names and
addresses, especially if they are in a different city.
Give information about
your medications--Many people take several medicines. It is
possible for medicines to interact, causing unpleasant and sometimes
dangerous side effects. Your doctor needs to know about ALL of the
medicines you take, including over-the-counter (non-prescription)
drugs, so bring everything with you to your fist visit, including
eye drops, vitamins, and laxatives. Tell the doctor how often you
take each and describe any drug allergies or reactions you have
had and which medications work best for you. Be sure your doctor
has the phone number of your regular drug store.
Tell the doctor about
your habits--To provide the best care, your doctor must understand
you as a person and know what your life is like. The doctor may
ask about where you live, what you eat, how you sleep, what you
do each day, what activities you enjoy, your sex life, and if you
smoke or drink. Be open and honest with your doctor. It will help
him or her to understand your medical conditions fully and recommend
the best treatment choices for you.
Summary: Getting Started With a New Doctor
• Learn the basics
of how the office runs.
• Share your medical
history.
• Give information
about your medications.
• Tell the doctor
about your habits.
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Is the
doctor's office convenient?
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Where is the doctor's office located?
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Is parking available nearby? What is the cost?
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Is the office on a bus or subway line?
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Does the building have an elevator? Ramps for a wheelchair? Adequate
lighting?
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