How to Live to be 100
The Doctor's Office
This month, we are switching gears and leaving the important arena of nutrition and moving into the equally important arena of the doctor's office. Regular check-ups with your physician are an important part of living to be 100. In a busy doctor's office, there are a lot of patients to see and only so many hours to see them all. Here are some suggestions for getting the most out of your time and your money.
I can't stress enough the importance of being on time for your visit. Not only will this keep the office running smoothly, it will more than likely allow you more time with your doctor. If you are a new patient, it is very helpful if your medical records are transferred before your office visit. Most doctors' offices prefer new patients to be there fifteen minutes early. This allows time for paperwork to be completed. Many offices also have a health history questionnaire they want filled out before the doctor sees you. Have a typed or printed list of your current medications. Note if you are taking any of the medications differently than prescribed. Always list the vitamin supplements and herbs you are taking. A list of surgeries and hospitalizations also is helpful.
There are only so many problems or issues that can be covered in one visit. It would be a good idea to write out what you need to discuss with your doctor, in order of importance. For example, "My feet hurt all the time," or "I am short of breath when I walk just a short distance." If you aren't able to cover everything in that visit, you can pick up where you left off on the next visit. If you are just seeing the doctor for a "routine" visit, discuss your chronic problems in order of their importance. It is extremely important to let your doctor know if there has been any changes in your symptoms or your general health: weight, appetite, exercise tolerance, bowel habits, sleep or if you have had any fever.
When the nurse checks you in, let her know what prescriptions need to be refilled. If you have a form that must be filled out, give it to the nurse before you see the doctor. This will keep you from having to wait longer and keep your doctor on schedule.
Being organized will ensure that the doctor will have more time to examine you. Don't be offended if the doctor rearranges your agenda a little. He will be happy you have an agenda.
Make the most of your office visit. It may save your life. Next month, we will revisit nutrition. I will give you the "skinny" on the fat in your diet. Until then, remember, you are what you eat!
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