Primary Care

Your Visit

Follow these preparation tips before you visit your primary care provider.

Be prepared

Bring information about your medical history, including any recent tests or procedures you've had. Details about any prescription, herbal supplements, or over-the-counter medicines you're taking are also important.

Be open

Describe all the signs and symptoms you're having. Sometimes the smallest bit of information is the missing link to determining your illness or course of treatment. If possible, make a list of symptoms at home and bring it with you to your appointment.

Ask questions

Asking the doctor to provide more details or to explain something more clearly makes you a more informed patient. It's also a good idea to jot down a few questions ahead of time. This can help you stay focused during your visit.

Take notes

Writing things down makes it easy to remember everything discussed during your appointment. Having a friend or family member listen in is another popular option.

Follow instructions

Your doctor wants to help you feel better. Make sure you follow through and follow all instructions given to you during your visit. If you're given prescription medication, make sure you take it as directed. If something is recommended that you are unable to do, tell your doctor as soon as possible.

For other helpful tips aimed at keeping you healthy, download our Prevention Guidelines.