<i>Getting the most from a doctor’s visit</i>
When you go to consult a doctor, often the visit seems to be over in a flash and you leave wondering exactly what the doctor wanted you to do. Doctors are often quite busy and may not present you all the necessary information. It is always considered wise to take steps by the patients to get the most out of their visits. If you do not have a regular doctor you need to find one who best meets your needs with regards to such things as location, doctor's skill and experience etc. You can find a doctor in you locality by obtaining recommendations from other people or through other sources as the Internet. Determine your goal for the appointment — do you need a diagnosis, advice on coping with an existing condition, referral to a specialist, a change in treatment etc. Use this goal to guide your communication with your doctor who will generally first listen to your history and then perform a physical examination. When you go for your appointment, make sure you have any necessary documents previously done such as medical records, X-rays, test results etc. Compiling a list of questions prior to the visit is a good idea and you can then write down the doctor's responses next to the question. Writing down the list of the symptoms you are experiencing and drugs or supplements you are taking is also helpful and takes the pressure off you trying to remember during the few minutes you have with your doctor. If you are feeling particularly unwell or even if you just feel you need the support or assistance in communicating with the doctor and recording information, do not be afraid to bring someone with you. During the session, you may feel overwhelmed by the information or the doctor may be using terminology you do not understand. If this happens, you need to let the doctor know so that he can slow down, rephrase or even write notes or draw diagrams for you if necessary. Most doctors are very busy and may tend to omit talking about health matters such as diet, weight, exercise, stress, sleep, smoking, alcohol use, sexual practices, vaccines and screening tests. Hence, if you feel any general health issues are relevant in your case, make sure you discuss them with your doctor. Also, find out what screening tests might be available for your age. We should not feel embarrass or be ashamed to discuss sensitive topics with our doctors. Remember there is nothing you could say that most doctors would not have already heard. By the time you are ready to leave the doctor's office you should be confident about what you should and should not do, what treatment you need, how to get it, how long it should take to work etc. It is wise to take responsibility for your health and ensure you follow the doctor's instructions. If you happen to think of more questions following your session or forget something the doctor told you, call the office immediately and request the information. However, keep in mind that the doctor may request that you make another appointment or he may call you back at a time convenient to him. You should feel comfortable with entrusting your health to your doctor. By exercising this practice, you can have maximum benefit during a visit for the betterment of your health. The article is compiled by Dr Shagufa Anwar, General Manager, Business Development of Apollo Hospitals, Dhaka. E-mail: shagufa.anwar@apollodhaka.com
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