HEALTHCARE
I have frequently heard from patients that going to the doctor or therapy can often be overwhelming and intimidating. It shouldn’t be. The patient – medical professional relationship is a give and take on both sides. You have an injury or problem and this is why you have sought medical or rehabilitative attention. In dealing with patients with a multitude of injuries/medical situations over the years, here are a few “pearls of wisdom” that can often make your visit a smooth and valuable experience.
1. Be prepared. Yes, you will have to fill out paperwork. If you can fill it out ahead of time online or have it sent to you, do it. Be thorough – give a good medical history. I have even had patients who keep their medications and medical history written down and bring it to their appointment.
2. Be concise. I have a good friend who has the saying “stick to the facts.” Even if you have to write it down. How and when did your issue start? Where is your pain? What causes your pain/makes it worse/makes it better? Have you had similar issues in the past? Have you had prior treatment or testing for the condition? These are a few of the important questions you will most likely be asked and if you are prepared it makes things go much smoother.
3. WRITE DOWN any questions you may have. We have all been there where we show up to an appointment with a million questions on our mind, start discussing the issue and then forget what we wanted to ask.
4. If you are concerned you might miss some aspect of your evaluation or treatment, have someone come to your appointment as an “extra set of ears/eyes.”
5. Be patient. Many injuries/conditions are not going to be solved immediately but our goal as medical professionals it to get you back up and running as quickly and safely as possible.
6. Listen to the good advice your practitioners give you. We are a wealth of knowledge and our job is to get you better.
