In Summary: Is it time for your annual physical? When it comes to things that people dread, an annual physical often tops the list. Not only is it nerve-wracking, but also intimidating lifestyle changes may be suggested. However, skipping a physical is the last thing you want to do. After all, you owe it to yourself to take steps to protect and preserve your health. But it’s important to think about preparing for this annual event. From making the appointment to following the doctor’s advice after your physical is completed, there are five steps to take to get the most out of the annual doctor visit.

Is it time for your annual physical? When it comes to things that people dread, an annual physical often tops the list. Not only is it nerve-wracking, but also intimidating lifestyle changes may be suggested. However, skipping a physical is the last thing you want to do. After all, you owe it to yourself to take steps to protect and preserve your health. But it’s important to think about preparing for this annual event. From making the appointment to following the doctor’s advice after your physical is completed, there are five steps to take to get the most out of the annual doctor visit.

Plan ahead of time.

Going to the doctor can be nerve-wracking. As a result, it's easy to forget the important questions you need to ask. This is when planning is key. According to U.S. News & World Report, it’s important to discern the reason for your visit ahead of time to help plan for your appointment.  Think about what results you hope for. Is it to check blood pressure? Update vaccinations? Or are you just looking for an overall snapshot of your health?

Experts say to plan the time spent with the physician. Long stories can lead to diminishing time on the clock. This is a mistake to avoid. "I once had a patient tell me that something had started all the way back in 1926. And I said, 'This could take a long time. Are you sure you want to spend our visit telling a story?'" Howard Beckman, a clinical professor at the University of Rochester Medical Center in New York, tells U.S. News & World Report. "And he wanted to. I told him I was happy to listen, but that he would have to come back a second time for the rest of the visit."

Bring needed medical information to your appointment.

When it comes to seeing a doctor, there are two records you definitely will need. The office will ask for your insurance information and medical history. Being prepared can save both time and energy. Some offices even allow you to complete this information – and more – online before your visit. Take advantage of this service if your doctor offers it. First, make sure that insurance covers the appointment. Call the insurance company and ask how much it plans to cover -- and how much of your deductible has been met, if you have one. Bring or make a copy of your insurance card for the office.

Then think about your medical history. U.S. News & World Report suggests writing down medical history ahead of time. This can be done as easily as putting necessary information in a computer document. If you aren’t computer-savvy, write it down on a piece of paper, bring it with you and copy it onto medical forms. Ask the office if you can fill out any information online ahead of time – this can save valuable time in the waiting room.   In this process, you’ll want to think about your family history because it's an important component of overall health – your doctor will want to know. Has a relative had cancer or heart disease? Has a relative had a stroke? What genetic health issues have relatives had?

Further, you’ll want to think about your symptoms. Do you have a rash? A cold? A stomach ache? Thinking about this ahead of time will help you to get the most out of the appointment. And remember to write down which medications you take. Plus, if you’re of childbearing age, you’ll want to write down the date of your last period. Doctors will often ask this question.

Be forthcoming with symptoms.

The worst thing you can do is avoid giving details of your symptoms because of embarrassment. Doctors have heard it all, so don’t let weird symptoms hold you back from being forthcoming. Leaving out details can mean misdiagnosis – or worse. According to the Center For Advancing Health (CFAH), sharing symptoms includes how you’re feeling emotionally. After all, emotions can play a part in health. Are you anxious, happy or depressed? How has your sleep been? Consider your relationships and how they make you feel as well. Think about these things and tell your doctor exactly how you feel.

Further, remember that your time is just as important as the doctor's. Don’t worry about delaying him or her. You deserve to be heard. Make sure that you understand exactly what he or she is saying. And if medical jargon is putting a damper on things, ask the doctor to clarify. Then ask about next steps and your treatment plan.

Record information that your doctor has shared.

How many times have you gone to a doctor’s appointment only to realize that you didn’t remember what was said after the appointment had finished? It's a common – and frustrating – issue for patients. According to Everyday Health, this issue can be prevented by keeping track of information the doctor gives. For example, you may use a notebook or app on your phone to record information that the doctor provides. Or bring someone with you to take notes so that you can listen to what your doctor says without having to worry about writing. You can even ask to use a device to record your doctor speaking, though some physicians may not favor this action.

Follow instructions that your doctor gives.

It’s easy to go to an annual doctor’s appointment and then ignore medical advice. However, engaging in this type of behavior only hurts you. So don’t fall into this trap. Directly after the appointment, make a list of all the doctor's instructions. For example, if your doctor told you to lose weight, write it down. And if your doctor recommended eight hours a day of sleep, make note of this.

Then take the list and turn it into realistic and specific goals. If you’re supposed to lose weight, how will you do it? Will you join Weight Watchers? Will you make a fitness plan that involves going to a gym or doing at-home workouts? What will your goals be along the way? Pick up any medications that your doctor has prescribed as soon as possible. It’s easy to skip adding new meds (like cholesterol and blood pressure medication), but that only hurts you. Make medication a priority. 

Source: Think Healthier News