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Going to the doctor can be a stressful experience, but it can be less stressful by preparing for the appointment. Remembering that you have approximately ten (10) minutes to discuss your concern, being able to provide this information is extremely important.

Preparation may take many different forms, depending on the health concern and the type of physician (General Practitioner, Psychiatrist, Surgeon, or Specialist). It is very important that you plan for each appointment. There are four pieces of information you need to take with you to your appointment.

The first rule of thumb is to take a list of your medications and the dosages, and the number of times per day the medication is taken with you to the appointment. Knowing what medications you are on will help the doctor to assess possible side effects and medication interactions. This is important for being able to prescribe medications and change dosages as necessary.

It is also very important that you bring a list of your allergies with you to an appointment. The doctor will need to know what allergies you have to ensure he/she does not prescribe a medication that may have an allergen. The doctor will ask for the type of reaction you have to the allergen; runny nose, watery eyes, chest congestion, or Anaphylaxis so that it can be recorded on your medical record.

Prepare a list of the symptoms you are experiencing and bring it with you to the appointment. It can be difficult to remember all the symptoms if you don't have a list with you. The doctor will be able to make a diagnosis by symptoms and will be able to determine a treatment plan based upon the medications, allergies and symptoms.

Be prepared to answer questions on your family's medical history for cardiac, immunology and other specialist appointments. The doctor needs this information to help determine if tests are necessary.

Once you arrive at the doctor's office you will need to follow these rules:
1. Check in at reception on time. Note, if it is the first visit you will need to fill out forms and in this case it is better to arrive ten (10) minutes earlier than your scheduled appointment;
2. Present your health care insurance (state or provincial or private) information ;
3. Turn off your cellular phone. Cell phones can interact with various pieces of medical equipment and can should also be shut off for the comfort of all people in the waiting room;
4. Keep food and drinks to a minimum. Keep in mind that people can be deathly allergic to peanuts and other nuts so it is best to avoid bringing these items into the office;
5. Wait patiently; remember that doctors sometimes have emergencies or complicated procedures that can take longer than originally anticipated.

Once you are taken into the examination room remember to:
1. Take your lists out so that you can be ready for the doctor's questions.
2. Be honest with the doctor about the reason for your visit.
3. Provide all information the doctor asks you for, if exclude any information you will be making it more difficult for the doctor to treat your concerns.

You can make the most of your next doctor's visit if you follow the recommendations outlined above.

Learn more about this author, Aubrey Little.
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