Advocacy, or insuring that health care professionals respect a parent's rights and address concerns, is a caregiver's most critical role. Effective advocates must be organized and plan ahead. Here are some steps to help you get the most out of your parents' next trip to their doctor.
Getting The Most Out of a Doctor's Visit
Before the appointment:
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Determine what health concerns led to scheduling the appointment and list them for the doctor.
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List all current medications with dosage information or carry medicines to the appointment.
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List any changes in health since last visit; response (good and bad) to new medication; and any newly developed side effects/reactions to current medication.
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Take insurance cards(s), documents you created and any test results or x-rays needed for the appointment
At the doctor's office:
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Arrive at the doctor's office 10-15 minutes ahead of time to fill out any paperwork, such as updating your parent's personal information.
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Make sure the office has most recent insurance information, including Medicare and secondary insurance, if any.
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Let your parents talk about health concerns as much as possible. Do not interrupt.
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Be attentive. Focus and listen to both parent and doctor calmly and objectively.
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Take notes, especially about new medication the doctor is prescribing or any suggested procedure or tests.
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Ask any questions your parent may have forgotten after your parent finishes speaking.
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Ask your parent if they understand the doctor's instructions, then repeat them back to the doctor for confirmation.
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Be assertive. It is your duty as an advocate and your parent's right as patient to make sure all questions are answered adequately.
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Before leaving the office, make sure you have all appropriate prescriptions, medicine samples and a follow-up appointment, if needed.