When you go to the doctor’s office, you first wait in the waiting room. Then you wait in the exam room. Nurses come in and out to weigh you, check your blood pressure, or ask you to provide a urine sample. When the doctor finally comes in, things can start to feel rushed. After all, the doctor is on a schedule and has other patients to see. At this point, it’s easy to forget something, whether it’s a nagging question or a clarification on a medication side effect.

It’s important to make the most of the time you have with the doctor by planning ahead for your visit. Here are some ways to do that.

• Make a list: Write down everything you want to talk to the doctor about — and bring the list with you. Don’t rely on your memory because it’s easy to forget something in the moment. If you’re experiencing concerning symptoms, then write down what they are and when they occur in a calendar or journal. That way, the doctor can better understand them and possibly see patterns.
• Bring someone with you: It's helpful to have a second set of ears to listen to what the doctor is saying and to ask additional questions, according to the National Institute on Aging. This is especially true for those with complex, serious illnesses or for elderly patients who may have trouble remembering things.
• Bring a list of medications or procedures: Unless you visit this doctor regularly, it’s helpful to bring a list of the medications you’re taking along with the dosing information. That includes alternative therapies and vitamins. If the physician is new to you or you’re seeing multiple doctors, then write down all procedures or exams you’ve had recently so that this doctor can get an overall picture of your health.
• Bring copies of other medical records: If you had a recent lab test or exam that is related to this appointment, then bring the results with you just in case that information hasn't arrived to this doctor's office yet. Missing information can delay things until a future doctor's visit, which can be frustrating.
• Bring a notepad and pen: Chances are good that your doctor will share new information and give you advice. Rather than relying on memory, write it down on a notepad, or type it into your phone.
• Look up information beforehand: If you have concerns about a specific medical issue, then consider looking it up on a reliable medical website before the visit. You can then ask the doctor better questions based on what you’ve learned.

The better prepared you are, the more you’ll get out of your doctor’s visit.

Sources:

CDC: Regular Check-Ups are Important

Mayo Clinic: Maintaining good health