In order to make the most of your visit with your Whitaker Wellness physician, there are a few steps you as a patient should follow before and during each and every appointment. The better prepared you are, the more effective your visit will be, thereby ensuring you get the most out of your doctor-patient relationship. Following these guidelines will steer you toward, and keep you on, the path to healthy living.

Bring a List of All Medications and Nutritional Supplements You Are Currently Taking

Knowledge about the medications (this includes all over-the-counter and prescription medicines) you take on a regular basis is imperative for your Whitaker Wellness physician to be able to properly diagnose or treat you. Many drugs (both prescription and non-prescription) have contraindications and do not work well with other medicines. Also be sure to bring a comprehensive list of all the vitamins, minerals, and other nutritional supplements you are taking to your initial visit.

Bring a List of Your Other Physicians

The more information you can provide the better. Inform your doctor of any other specialists or physicians you are seeing as well as letting him/her know about the conditions that motivated you to schedule your appointment. A list from at least the prior year, preferably two or three, is advised.

Bring a List of Questions

Keep an ongoing list of questions between visits that you would like to ask your doctor. Don't worry, there are no stupid questions. Be sure to jot down any changes in mood, diet, memory, sexual function, etc., you may be experiencing. Write down symptoms, duration of the condition, frequency, and so on. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that health problems are a natural part of growing older. They're not. Also, don't be embarrassed. Doctors are trained professionals who cannot help you better your health unless you are specific and honest with them regarding what is bothering you. Remember, the goal of your physician is to help you correct the problem and ultimately help you feel better.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions That Might Be Out of the Realm of What You Thought Your Doctor Could Help You With

Most physicians have excellent resources and research capabilities. Don't be afraid to ask for referrals on a variety of topics that are directly or indirectly related to your health and well-being. For example, tell your doctor about significant life events such as moving, retiring, or the passing of a friend or loved one. Ask about your future care options in the event that you become seriously ill. Tying up your own "loose ends" by creating an advanced directive (a document which specifies your wishes should you become unable to make your own health decisions) often gives patients peace of mind and mitigates the thought of becoming a burden to loved ones. The ideal time to discuss these options is before you encounter any serious health problems. Your doctor can aid in this situation by putting you in touch with professionals who can help you create living wills and durable healthcare powers of attorney.

Bring a Family Member or Friend With You to Your Appointment

Many people are a little nervous when it comes time to meet with the doctor. Having a friend or family member along can help ease anxiety. Chances are, you'll be receiving quite a bit of information and having that extra person around when it's time to remember what transpired during your visit can be extremely useful. Another option? Bring along your own tape recorder and record your visit for future reference.

In Closing...

Your physician's ultimate goal is to help you feel better and to improve your health. You are an integral part of this process. Don't be afraid to take control of your well-being, ask questions, and be upfront with your doctor. Here's to your health!