To make sure health issues are fully addressed and you get the most out of your appointment, take the following steps prior to arriving at the doctor’s office:

1. Write down questions ahead of time and bring them to your appointment.

2. Some magazine or web articles can be confusing; take copies to your appointment in order to discuss the relevant points needing clarification.

3. Have a list of your medicines on hand to review with your doctor to help you avoid possible drug interactions. Don’t forget to include over-the-counter medicines as well as prescription drugs. Vitamins and supplements you are taking should also be reviewed.

4. Discuss lifestyle habits that can have an impact on your health and medical care, such as physical activity, nutrition, and stress management.

5. If your doctor has performed blood or other diagnostic tests, find out when the results will be available. If you don’t hear back from the office by that date, follow up by getting your results and be sure to discuss their implications with the doctor, especially if there are abnormal findings.

Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if you are uncomfortable with any of your doctor’s advice. Sometimes, switching to another physician is the best option if a particular doctor doesn’t meet your expectations.