Ready for Your Doctor's Visit?

You can have a more successful visit if you prepare for your appointment by gathering the following:

• Names and contact information for each of your doctors
• Your insurance information
• Your health history, including allergies, surgeries, tests, screenings, and immunizations
• A list of any medicines, vitamins, or supplements you take
• Your family's health history
• A copy of your medical record (if you're seeing a new doctor)
• A list of questions or concerns

Don't be shy about bringing up a health concern. A recent study showed that talkative patients (those who gave out more information and asked more questions) got better results from their physicians than less talkative patients. Good communication means your doctor has enough information to offer you the best treatments for your unique situation.

To aid in your communication, Hill Physicians offers the online service RelayHealth. If your doctor subscribes to RelayHealth, you can talk by email, request refills on prescriptions, schedule appointments, and view lab results.

More ways to be a prepared patient:

• Watch our video Preparing for your Doctor Visit.
• Download our tip sheet Preparing for Your Doctor Visit
• View the Healthwise Ask-the-Doctor Checklist.
• Find forms for making the most of your appointment, including forms for a new appointment, follow up appointment, medicines, medical tests, surgery, special treatment, and more.
• Find forms for making end-of-life plans or designating someone to choose your care if you become too sick to make your own medical decisions.