How many times have you gone to the Doctor’s Office and felt like you were being run over? One thing I must remind myself is that while they are experts in their field, they are also there to serve, support, and help me make informed decisions about my health. 

There are several things we can do to better prepare for our appointments.  

• Write down symptoms you have been experiencing, tell the Doctor if they are the same, better or worse than previous and make sure you report on any new symptoms.   

• Have a list of the medicines and dosages you are taking. Please do not rely on memory- if you are anything like me, you will forget something.   

• Bring a second set of ears – such as a spouse, a friend or even an adult child. I know I personally have a habit of focusing on one thing the doctor says and then missing the next twenty-two things that follow. That second set of ears can often catch important details, instructions, or information you may not remember later.  

• Write down your concerns and make two copies, one for yourself and one for your provider. This way you can ask two or three questions from the list and then they are able to look at the other issues when they are not so rushed.  They may catch something you didn’t find important but that is important to your case. 

• Make sure you are using “I” statements, for example “I do not understand how you would like me to use this medicine. Will you please explain it again.”  

• If you really don’t feel like your concerns have been answered, simply say  “I still have concerns regarding this issue, can you please take 2 to 3 minutes longer to explain.” 

I realize how hard it is to find Doctors in the state of Wyoming. I also know that if you truly feel like you are not being heard it is time to find a new Doctor.