By: Asha Florence Mungal (taken from the CSSL Caregivers Guide)
When visiting a new doctor, what should I take to the appointment?
- All past medical information
- Logbook
- Daily log
- Medications prescribed
- Do they do house calls? If yes, what is the cost?
- Get as much information about the doctor and the experience he/she may have in treating this particular condition.
- Do you have an emergency number?
- Any other questions you think may be relevant to caring for your loved one.
Do not pretend to understand what the doctor is saying.
- If you do not understand what is being said, ask the doctor to explain and make notes.
- Changes to medication – ask the doctor what the reason is for the change.
- Additions to medication – ask the doctor what they are for.
- All the medication prescribed – ask the doctor if there are any major side effects or concerns you should look for.
- Medical conditions – understand the stages and what is expected at each stage. For example, with dementia, cancer, etc.
Any doctor’s visit can be nerve-racking. Having support makes the process a bit easier. Many family caregivers are so overwhelmed, they often miss the diagnosis or sometimes confuse what is being said. Take a deep breath and remember the three P’s – Prepare, Plan, Pass.
Once you are PREPARED with all your loved one’s information, you are ready for the doctor’s visit. You can now PLAN the questions to be asked and can guide how the visit should go.
Your confidence should be more secure, and the visit should PASS with ease. Remember, always leave room for the unexpected, because when caring for a loved one we have to take things as they come.
For more information email: caregiversgroup@gmail.com