How to Prepare for a Doctor's Appointment
Appointments can feel rushed. A little preparation helps you cover what matters most, understand your care plan and leave with your questions answered.
The short version
- Write down your top concerns and questions before the visit.
- Bring a complete list of medications, including vitamins and supplements.
- It is fine to ask the doctor to repeat or explain something, or to bring a companion.
In this guide
Doctor visits often go by quickly, and it is common to remember an important question only after you are back in the car. A bit of preparation can help you make the most of the time and leave feeling confident about the next steps.
Before the appointment
List your concerns in order of importance. Put the most important issue first so it gets covered even if time runs short. Keep the list to a few items when possible.
Describe symptoms clearly. For each symptom, note:
- When it started
- How often it happens and how long it lasts
- What makes it better or worse
- How it affects your daily activities
Update your medication list. Include prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products and supplements, with doses and how often you take them. You can also bring everything in a bag.
Gather information. Bring your insurance cards, photo ID, recent test results from other doctors and a list of your other providers.
Note changes since your last visit, such as hospital stays, falls, new diagnoses, changes in mood, sleep or appetite, or major life events.
Consider bringing someone. A family member or friend can take notes, help you remember what was said and ask questions you may not think of.
During the appointment
Start with your top concern. Let the doctor know at the beginning that you have a few things to discuss.
Be honest and specific. Share everything that might be relevant, even if it feels embarrassing. Doctors hear about all kinds of concerns.
Take notes or ask your companion to. Some patients ask whether they can record the conversation on their phone.
Ask questions until you understand. Useful questions include:
- What do you think is causing this?
- What are my treatment options, and what are the pros and cons?
- What should I do if things get worse?
- Are there side effects I should watch for?
- When should I follow up?
Repeat back what you heard. Saying something like, "So I should take this pill with breakfast and call if the swelling does not go down in a week," is a good way to make sure you understood.
Mention hearing or vision difficulties. Ask the doctor to speak more slowly, face you or provide written instructions.
About new medications
If you are prescribed something new, ask:
- What is it for?
- How and when should I take it?
- Should I avoid any foods, drinks or other medicines?
- What side effects are common, and which ones should I report?
- How long will I need to take it?
After the appointment
- Review your notes while the visit is fresh.
- Schedule follow-up tests or appointments before you leave if possible.
- Check your patient portal for visit summaries and test results.
- Call the office if you have questions later. Nurses can often help.
If you have trouble getting to appointments
Ask the office whether telehealth visits are available. Your local Area Agency on Aging can tell you about transportation programs in your community, and some Medicare Advantage plans include transportation benefits. You can find your local agency through the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
