Simple Helps to Make Pesky Doctor Visits Easier

Doctor visits for invisibly disabled people can be challenging, even intimidating. Seeing new doctors can be even more problematic. Our health issues are complicated and sometimes disbelieved, even by medical people. But there are helps to make appointments easier and more beneficial.

Many years ago, it seemed prudent to begin writing down my history as it happened. First by typewriter, then by word processor, followed by spreadsheet. I am so glad I did that, as my memory has diminished over time. Now, if I need to see a new specialist, I just adapt my history for that doctor.

As an established patient, I use a different form. Some doctors are receptive to this; others are not. Whether or not they wish to see the paper, I often use it to remind myself of what I need to cover.

I’ll share my ideas, and you can adapt them to fit your own situation.

For years, I used Microsoft Word or Excel, often using fancy fonts or colors. I also tabbed subpoints under the main heading. Very recently, I began taking notes on my cell. Whatever format you use, though, this basic idea should help you get more from your visit.

Now, however, since none of my current doctors care about seeing my info, I often use notes to remind myself of what to say. I also have trouble remembering specific words, so these reminders prove helpful.

Below are simplified versions of forms that I have used.

Notes for appointment

• Be sure to put your name, birthdate, and date of visit in the header.
• In the current status portion, be as detailed as needed to let your practitioner know how it’s going. Use tabs as needed to add more info. If your ongoing issues never change, you can omit this part.
• For a new problem, your doctor will want to know when it started and whether you think it is related to an ongoing issue. If pain is involved, where and what kind. The other columns apply to me but maybe not to you. Adapt as needed.

History form for seeing new doctor

Notes for history

• Be sure to add your identifying info in the header, just in case the doctor keeps the paper.
• Be as detailed as you feel will be helpful to your new doctor.
• Because my problems started 40+ years ago, I only include major issues.

Summing up

Even when you are blessed with good doctors, visits can be stressful. Having written notes reduces anxiety, at least for me. If you have trouble word-finding, writing down specific words helps. I hope these hints make your next visit more relaxing and worthwhile.

–Connected Carole

Learning More

What and how much do caregivers say at a doctor visit? See this informative article, “Who’s in charge at the doctor visit?”

A 2014 article, “Doctors’ ignorance stands in the way of care for the disabled,” outlines how our care can be negatively impacted, especially when you throw in the word “invisible.” Hopefully, doctors have improved since then. But this shows how we need to be informed and to stand up for ourselves.

See “Kristy’s Adventures” for a personal experience story about dealing with the medical community.

Investigate “Traits” to consider when choosing a doctor.