I have not been posting on here or YouTube lately because of health issues. I decided to write out some of the tips I’ve both heard from others and come up on my own to help you have a better experience in your own doctor’s appointments. I simply list them out here for easy review, and go into more depth for each on my channel. Check it out here: My YouTube

1. Bring with you a list of all of your medications and supplements with the dosage, time you take it, and reason for taking it – even if you update it in a medical system like MyChart
2. Bring a list of all of your symptoms
3. Bring a list of questions – prepare in advance
4. Bring a timeline (as best you can) of when symptoms began
5. Bring a list what other doctors you are seeing and why
6. Bring hard copies of results you want the doctor to review
7. Record the appointment – tell the doctor you are doing this
8. Bring a companion or call someone to listen in with you
9. Be patient with yourself and the doctor
10. Communicate how you feel about the appointment with the doctor
11. Ask for input from those around you: what questions and observations do they think you should bring up with the doctor from their perspectives – prepare as much ahead as possible
12. Consider the options your doctor is presenting, but also question them so you fully understand what the option will do for you
13. Do physical therapy (if that is recommended)
14. Be patient with the process – it may take some time to find a diagnosis
15. Research carefully on reputable sights. Stop when you need to protect your mental health
16. Read the after-visit summaries
17. Go to the follow-ups and use the time between to gather more information
18. Switch doctors if you need to – it’s more important to be with someone you can have a good relationship with
19. Use your insurance to you best advantage. Call and ask for an advocate

Please comment below with your own tips to have a more beneficial doctor’s appointment.