Number One Tip For Doctor's Visits

Let's face it, at some point we will all be faced with a doctor's appointment that will change our lives. This can be scary and completely overwhelming, but this tip can and will make things easier.

Choose a close friend or family member to go to the doctor's office with you and be in the room when you hear the news.

This "second set of ears" matters! While you are focused on the questions, "will I be okay," and "what do I do now," the other person can focus on what the doctor or nurse is saying. They can even take notes! While explaining the next steps in the course of action, most medical professionals will use examples of how others patients adapted to their new way of life, and those examples are important too and will not appear in the visit summary. "What did they say could help?" "What foods should I avoid specifically?" The other person can help you fill in the blanks of any parts you missed. Together you will have a better overall retention of the plan going forward.

Here is the other part that makes this approach work. Not only will the person hear first hand what you need going forward, they will also be better able to support you going forward. Did the doctor say to focus on exercise, then maybe they will become your gym buddy. Need to focus on healthier eating, they will keep you in mind when someone tells them about a new healthy recipe they tried. 

If this is the person that you would turn to for support  anyway,  do yourself a favor and ask them to go with you. You will have support from the start and they will have a better idea of where and what support you need. I practice this with my family and friends, you should too.