Primary care doctor is a doctor who can address all your primary needs, from treating short-term illnesses to managing long-term diseases. They can educate you about your health and wellness and provide screening to help you stay on top of your health.
Whether you are going to your primary care doctor for an annual checkup or the treatment of your acute illnesses like flu or stomachache, you must take a few steps ahead to make your visit as stress-free and productive as possible.
Let’s talk about 10 ways to make the most of your primary care doctor visit in the Bronx, NY.
#1 Follow All the Instructions You Receive
It’s highly likely that while making an appointment with the primary care doctor, the staff at the doctor’s office will give you some specific instructions. These instructions may be about preparing for your appointment, what to bring with you, and much more.
So, follow these instructions carefully to make the most of your visit to your primary care doctor.
#2 Bring Your ID Care and Insurance
At your appointment, you should confirm that your health is covered by insurance. So, remember to bring your photo ID card and insurance card.
If you don’t have insurance, ask about the payment options while making an appointment.
#3 Bring Your Medical Record
In addition to bringing your medical records, know your family’s medical history. Also, inform your doctor of any allergies you have or surgeries you had.
#4 Bring Your Journal Where You Have Noted Your Health Goals and Questions
Your actual time with your primary care doctor may be short, and it’s easy to overlook things you were hoping to cover during this short time. So, bring a journal where you have noted down all your questions, concerns, and health goals.
#5 Bring Medications and Supplements You Are Currently Taking
Make sure to also tell your doctor about the dosage you are taking and the number of times you take your medications and supplements a day. This will provide your PCP with an insight into your current health status and how the medications affect your health.
#6 Arrive Early
You may need to complete some paperwork when you arrive at your primary care doctor’s office. So, expect delays and arrive at least 20 minutes before your appointment.
#7 Bring a Friend with You
Recalling and explaining everything about your health can be difficult for you, particularly if you are elderly. So, bring a family member or friend with you who can listen, take notes, and advocate for you.
#8 Be Honest
When it comes to your health, clear communication between you and your doctor is vital. So, don’t be embarrassed about sharing your symptoms or lifestyle habits with your doctor. Don’t hold back any information, and be honest.
#9 Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions from your PCP. Never hold back a question thinking that it might be a dumb question. Listen to the answers carefully; if possible, write them down in your journal.
#10 Take Notes
Always bring a journal, pen, or digital device for notetaking. Note all your doctors’ recommendations and instructions.
General Practice in the Bronx, NY
At Starling Diagnostics, as your first point of contact, our medical team can help you heal from your injuries and illnesses, manage your serious health conditions, as well as optimize your health so that you keep feeling good in the long term and stay at the top of your health. We also offer screening and diagnostic imaging services so that all our patient’s needs are addressed under one roof.
To know more about our general practice or schedule a consultation, call us today at (718) 319-1610 or fill out our online appointment request form.
