5 Ways I Prepare for a Doctor’s Appointment

Being prepared means the doctor has time to review my case and answer all my questions in the limited time we have together.

Preparing for a doctor’s appointment requires more than simply showing up.

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS), I’ve learned how to best prepare so I can make the most of the time allotted for my appointment. Here are my top five tips:

Join the free MS community!

Connect with thousands of members and find support through daily live chats, curated resources, and one-to-one messaging.

Sign up

1. Take notes

From the moment I leave an appointment with my neurologist until my next appointment, I type questions that arise into the Notes app on my phone. I also keep a list of any changes in my symptoms.

This ensures I remember to ask all my questions and mention any new symptoms the next time I see my doctor. It’s a simple way to keep track of questions and concerns over time.

2. Confirm a ride or companion

I’m unable to drive distances due to leg fatigue, so for some appointments I need a ride. When family members are unavailable, I have two drivers I trust to take me to appointments.

If I have a follow-up appointment with a doctor I already know, I often feel a companion is unnecessary. For initial appointments with a new doctor, however, I prefer to have a family member join me.

I take all of this into consideration every time I schedule an appointment, so I know how much time I’ll need, and who I need to loop in.

3. Collect recent lab work and a list of medications and supplements

Healthcare professionals will often request recent lab work or imaging results, as well as a list of current medications. Collecting necessary documents and lists prior to your appointment saves time and allows your doctor to help you more efficiently.

You can often find your recent labs in your patient portal if your care team has one. For MRIs or other imaging results, doctors typically request a disc with images.

4. Check in early

Many healthcare facilities allow you to check in online or by using the patient portal prior to your appointment. By filling out forms and providing necessary information beforehand, you save time and often don’t have to show up early to complete paperwork.

In addition, your doctor can review your case before the appointment begins.

5. Gather necessary items and choose a comfortable outfit

I pack my purse or tote bag the night before an appointment so I don’t forget any necessary items the next day. I make sure I have my wallet, insurance card, and co-payment, along with water, a snack, and anything else I may need.

For appointments where parking may be farther from the door, I bring my disability parking placard. A comfortable outfit ensures the doctor can conduct their exam smoothly — but more importantly, allows me to feel at ease.

The takeaway

Going to a doctor’s appointment when you have MS is stressful enough. These quick steps help reduce some of my anxiety about it — and hopefully will help you, too.