If it’s been a while since your last visit to the doctor’s office, then know that you’re not alone! The unfortunate truth is that millions of people skip medical appointments every year. Individuals may put off seeing their doctor for a variety of reasons –– ranging from a busy schedule to anxiety. Thankfully, though, it’s never too late to schedule a checkup. Here, we’ll walk you through everything you’ll need for your next trip to the doctor’s office to ensure you have a positive and stress-free experience.
Get Your Paperwork in Order
Before you head to the doctor’s office, make sure that you have all of your paperwork on hand. This includes your insurance card, some form of ID, as well as your credit card. (Healthcare isn’t free, after all.) In some instances, doctors may also ask you to bring a copy of relevant medical history. Lastly, it can be a good idea to write down your appointment time so that you have it handy and don’t forget it.
Smartphone/Magazine/Book
Even if you show up exactly on time for a doctor’s appointment, there’s still a good chance that you may have to wait for five, ten, or even fifteen minutes before the doctor is ready to see you. So don’t forget to bring something to read while you’re waiting. A smartphone is an obvious choice, but you may also decide to bring a book or magazine too. If you’re nervous about seeing your doctor, make sure you have something to keep you occupied before the appointment begins.
Small Notepad
Doctors don’t just check your vital signs and review your medical history during a physical. They also are likely to give you actionable health advice. As such, it’s a smart idea to bring a small notepad with you to jot down important points your MD brings up. Doctors may give you recommendations for getting better sleep, sticking to a diet, or even relieving pain naturally. It can be easy to forget what your doctor says, so bring a pen and paper to write it down! A folder or purse can also be beneficial. Remember, you may need your doctor to write you a prescription or a note for work, so have something with you to carry around any such documents.
Conclusion
Going to the doctor’s for the first time in years can be a nerve-wracking experience. You should always keep in mind, though, that doctors only want to help you. They have access to sophisticated equipment manufactured by companies like Greiner Bio-One that they can use to diagnose and treat many issues that may be affecting your well-being. It’s okay to be nervous before an appointment, but don’t let that stop you from getting the care you need!