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Maximize Your Doctor Time

Anne Osmer Reporting Reporting
 
Get the most out of your doctors' visits! A little preparation can help you maximize your return on the (often short) time you're face to face with a physician.

Check out these five "Appointment Pointers" from Health Alliance Plan:

1: READ UP. If you're visiting the physician for a particular condition, learn as much as you can about it before your appointment. Start with the Internet or your local library. This will help you better understand what your physician tells you and may spark questions you'll want to ask. HAP members: HAP's online Healthcare Advisor has information for members on health care topics, questions to ask your physician, a medical encyclopedia and links to helpful resources.

2: WRITE DOWN. Prepare any questions ahead of time. Ask these early in the appointment to ensure there's adequate time for your doctor to answer them. Bring paper and pen with you to record when you should return, what tests you may need and any recommended treatments. Also: Bring a list of medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal remedies.

3: KEEP TRACK. If you have symptoms, track when they occur, for how long, how often, whether any factors or situations seem to trigger them, and what alleviates them.

4: LOOK BACK. Know your family health history, including family members who have conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease or cancer.

5: SHOOT STRAIGHT. If it's your first visit, you may be asked to complete a questionnaire describing your health history and your family's health. Answer honestly and completely. It's important for your physician to know about habits such as smoking and alcohol use, exercise and more. This is confidential information that can help your physician develop the safest and most effective course of treatment for you.
  

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