I have a section in Take Charge of Bipolar Disorder on making the most of your doctor visits. Actually, I just remembered that I wrote a column for BP Magazine on the same topic! Some of us have the luxury of unlimited health care professional visits. Others are very limited. No matter what, it’s important to plan for the visits ahead of time.
Here are some tips:
- Tell someone you trust about your appointment so that they can remind you of the date and time. You can also ask them to drive you.
- Make a list of questions before you go- You can hand the doctor the questions to save time.
- Look up your meds online to see if any of your questions are answered- that way you can confirm information with your HCP instead of having to take time getting an answer.
- Keep all of your insurance papers in one place. A simple envelope works. Take what you need to your appointments. This is very important if you’re on disability. I tend to have my receipts and bills in one big mess. Not a good idea!
- Ask your HCP what you should do if you have an emergency. Do they take after hours calls? And… make sure you don’t abuse this. I believe in a hierarchy of needs- you need to have a list of people to call when you get suicidal, etc. Often, the first person is your therapist and then your doctor. Help lines and friends work as well. I suggest that you spread yourself out so that no one gets overwhelmed.
- and finally.. my best tip. ALWAYS get the first appointment in the morning if possible. I have saved so much time doing this.
Good luck – the system can be tough, but we can be tougher!
Julie
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