In an effort to enhance the patient-doctor relationship, Dr. Leo Lopez III, the medical director of school-based clinics and the Institute for Public Health at University Health, shares valuable tips on optimizing your next medical appointment.
1. Prepare for the Appointment
Before heading to your medical appointment, take a moment to prepare. Bring along a list of questions or topics you want to discuss, your current medication list, any required refills, and health logs with relevant data, such as blood pressure readings or insulin levels. Additionally, be ready to share any recent health changes or new symptoms with your provider.
2. Bring a Support Person
Consider bringing a family member or a trusted friend to your appointment. Having someone else present can assist in recalling important information, especially regarding treatment plans. This is particularly beneficial for those seeing a specialist for the first time or attending follow-up appointments after medical procedures.
3. Advocate for Yourself
Take an active role in your healthcare by asking questions, seeking clarification when needed, and expressing any disagreements with the proposed treatment plan. Dr. Lopez emphasizes the importance of patient involvement, stating that comprehensive medical care is a collaborative effort between doctors and patients.
4. Overcome Language Barriers
Patients have the right to receive healthcare in their preferred language. Dr. Lopez highlights the availability of tools, such as iPads and translator services, to improve communication with non-English speaking patients. Physicians and clinics are encouraged to anticipate and address patients' language needs, ensuring culturally and linguistically appropriate care.
5. Achieve Your Healthcare Goals
To achieve healthcare goals, Dr. Lopez emphasizes the importance of proactive patient involvement. If a patient leaves an appointment dissatisfied, he suggests taking further action, such as following up with the clinic, speaking to a manager about concerns, or seeking a second opinion from another physician.
In conclusion, Dr. Lopez encourages patients to be confident and vocalize any concerns during appointments. Effective communication between patients and doctors is crucial in working together towards optimal health.
