GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR RHEUMATOLOGY VISIT
Seeing your specialist is extremely important. The 30 minutes or so you spend with your rheumatologist can impact the next several months to a year of your well-being. Your diagnosis, treatment and future outlook depend on you having a productive visit with your doctor. Take the following steps to make sure you get the most out of seeing your rheumatologist:
- Be prepared: The first rule is to show up to the office the right way. Get there early so you are not stressed and frantic. You will need to be relaxed and clear-headed. Make sure you have all of your lab results and other testing for your doctor tor review. You should call a week ahead and ask if there is any additional testing you will need before your consultation.
- Educate yourself before your visit: Read up on your medical condition to make you more familiar with what your doctor will discuss with you.
- Consider your goals for your visit: think about what you seek to accomplish in seeing the rheumatologist.
- Write your questions down: it is very easy to forget what you what you want to ask your doctor when you at your consultation visit. Compile a list and take it with you.
- Be your own advocate, or bring one: remember that you are your best advocate in speaking up for the treatment you want or need. If you tend to be shy or you feel overwhelmed, bring a family member or trusted friend to help be your advocate.
- Arrange for a follow-up: Be clear with your doctor that you would like a follow up appointment to review your progress. Also find out how you can contact your doctor if you have questions or concerns in the meantime.
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