If you have ever felt sick enough to need medical attention, you know how helpless and desperate it feels to be in that situation. Visiting a doctor can be overwhelming and intimidating for some, especially if you aren’t used to being around them often. Some people also think going to the doctor is a one-stop-shop, where you can walk in, get what you need, then walk out.
What most people don’t realize is that some conditions take time and some degree of monitoring to treat. For this reason, it is essential to find an excellent doctor who you can trust and who gives you an exceptional level of care. If you are going to need a doctor, you should be able to develop a good relationship with them so you can get the best results possible. Here are five essential things to remember when dealing with your primary care doctor and your medical team:
1. Make the most out of your appointment
Show up ahead of your appointment schedule and pre-register with your doctor’s assistant. If it’s a telemedicine call, check your connection and set up your phone and computer at least one hour prior. Doctors see many patients in a day. If one of them is late, it can move the entire plan and keep everyone waiting. If you show up early, however, the doctor may see you ahead of your schedule, if someone else is late for theirs. Starting on time also gives you enough time to explain to your doctor everything that concerns you, and they don’t have to rush through your examination.
2. Prepare a list of questions beforehand
When you set an appointment, thinking about all the concerns you want to bring up to your doctor. Itemize them and write them down. Refer to this list during your consultation, so you don’t leave out important information, or you don’t leave the doctor’s office with unresolved questions.
3. Be honest with your doctor about anything related to your condition
Some patients conveniently exclude bits of information from embarrassment or fear of being judged for certain lifestyle choices. Your doctor will only be able to make an accurate diagnosis and prepare an appropriate course of treatment if he or she is presented with complete information. Doctors have probably heard and seen everything there is to be embarrassed about, so don’t omit anything because you want to save face. A crucial detail may mean the difference between resolving your condition or serious consequences.
4. Tell your doctor if you have apprehensions or objections to the treatment plan
Your doctor will develop a treatment plan, but you will need to consent to it. They can prepare solutions to your condition, but if you do not agree, raise your concerns, and discuss alternatives. If it has to do with insurance or expenses, your doctor might have resources or financial assistance to recommend. A good doctor will want what’s best for you, and you should be honest enough to reveal apprehensions or anything that might prevent you from getting the best course of treatment.
5. Follow your doctor’s advice
It sounds like a given, but many people don’t follow the advice of their primary care doctor, especially if it means sacrificing favorite foods or giving up some activities. If you have some doubts, you are also welcome to get a second opinion from another doctor. However, if it reinforces your original doctor’s recommendation, then don’t delay heeding their advice so you can get sooner, faster. A doctor won’t be able to help anyone who isn’t willing to follow a prescription.
Doctors spend years honing their abilities to prevent, diagnose, and treat medical conditions. How effective their treatment plans depend primarily on how cooperative the patient is. While every doctor is different, setting up a healthy foundation for a doctor-patient relationship can help you work together to overcome your condition.
Are you looking for a primary care doctor in North Bergen? Our board-certified physicians and specialists offer exceptional care and expert medical advice so you can get the treatment you deserve. Schedule your appointment with us today.