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When we have something wrong with us, such as a lasting headache, back pain, the flu, etc., we want to see a doctor so they can fix it. What we don't always think about is that there is a lot more to doctor appointments than just calling and scheduling.

It is essential to arrive at your doctor's office knowing exactly what you are going to discuss and being prepared to write down your discussion. Too often have I gone to see a doctor, and upon arriving back home I either forgot to totally mention something I wanted to discuss or forgot what my doctor told me.

I am sure this happens to other people as well. What I suggest doing, and has worked well recently, is before visiting your doctor to think of everything you want to discuss. Then take out a piece of paper and write it down. This way you can refer to it when you are with your doctor in case you forget anything or to double check to make sure you discussed everything you wanted to.

When you are having discussions with your doctor, often time’s doctors will not write down for example how many times you should take a particular medicine which is important information. In this instance you should write down what your doctor told you. Yes, bring a pen and a pad of paper with you to doctor’s appointments. It will save you unnecessary trips and phone calls later on caused by forgetfulness.

-written 8/01/07