As a patient, there are several things you can do before, during, and after your doctor visit to help ensure the best possible care and outcomes. It can be a lot to think about, for sure. That’s why we’ve created the following guide—to ply you with a strategy for getting all your questions answered, understanding treatment options, and remembering what may come next.

Getting ready for your appointment
Make a list to take with you. It equips you with a go-to line up of questions and information you don’t want to forget. Try to include everything that might apply, such as:

  1. The questions you want to ask. Examples: Why am I feeling this way, how am I doing, or what else can I be doing to feel better?
  2. What you need to tell or show your doctor. This could include symptoms, family history, or exposure to other people who’ve been ill.
  3. All medications and supplements you currently take. That includes over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Better yet, bring all these items with you so your doctor can see the labels.
  4. Any allergies you have, including bad reactions you’ve had to medications.


Consider asking someone to go with you
By taking a trusted friend or family member with you—especially if you feel ill or have serious health problems—allows another set of eyes and ears to listen, contribute, take notes, and help you remember what was said.

Check your insurance benefits
Understanding your benefits before a visit allows you to better understand the cost of the visit and eliminate any surprises. You can check your benefits by looking at your benefit summary or member handbook, both available online through InTouch for Members at PacificSource.com, or you can call our Customer Service team at (888) 977-8299 or email us at cs@pacificsource.com.

When you’re at the appointment

  1. Explain why you’re there.
  2. Answer the doctor’s questions. Your clear and complete answers help the doctor figure out what might be going on.
  3. Listen to your doctor’s diagnosis. Do you understand what your provider is telling you? If questions come up, ask them.
  4. Ask questions about any medications, tests, or procedures your doctor recommends. Remember, more treatment doesn’t always mean better care. It’s smart to ask about costs, risks, side effects, alternative treatment options, and what the doctor expects to learn from the procedure. For prescription drugs, you’ll save money if you ask your doctor to prescribe generics whenever possible.
  5. Ask any remaining questions from your list. Ask anything your doctor hasn’t already answered, and take notes.
  6. Know what happens next. Before you leave, make sure you’re clear about the next steps and when they need to happen.


Best approaches to asking questions
Many people hold back on asking questions during their medical appointments. Some are embarrassed, hesitant to take up too much time, or they’re not sure what to say.

Asking questions can be hard, but remember, it’s your health that matters and the reason you’re seeing a medical health professional in the first place. You need—and deserve—to understand what your doctor or other health professional is telling you.

  1. Take your time and think about what the doctor has said.
  2. Ask questions that will help you clearly understand the diagnosis.
  3. Refer to your list of questions.
  4. Ask your doctor if working with a Nurse Case Manager or enrolling in a condition support program would help with ongoing medical needs.

Remember, every doctor visit is an opportunity to empower yourself and your family. By taking a little time to plan for the visit and what you want to get out of your visit, you’ll be more equipped in the pursuit of better health outcomes.

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