When you leave the hospital, you may have follow-up tests or other appointments to remember ... possibly with new doctors.
It's a lot to keep track of ... but going to all of your appointments helps you know you're doing all you can for your health.
And those follow-up appointments also help your doctors work together ...
and work with you so you get the care you need.
Now ... making a doctor appointment is a good start ...
But remembering when it is and what it's for ...
and being prepared for it ... that's important too.
All of this can seem like a lot. But there are ways to make these things a little easier.
To start, you may be able to schedule some of your appointments ...
like tests or follow-up visits ... before you leave the hospital.
You can ask your discharge planner for help.
Some appointments may need to be scheduled after you leave the hospital.
Often the doctor will want to see you again soon, so make sure you know how soon ...
and schedule the appointment within that time.
Now ... there are ways to help yourself remember your appointments after they're scheduled ... like using a printed calendar ...
or a calendar on your cell phone or computer.
Or, leave yourself reminder notes ... Whatever's easiest for you.
It may help to keep a list of all your doctors ...
with the times you're scheduled to see them ... and what you're seeing them for.
Put the list someplace where you'll see it often, like next to your alarm clock or on the refrigerator.
And if you need help with any of this ... you could ask a friend or family member.
It's also important to be prepared ...
so you and your doctor can get the most from your appointment.
Before you go, write down any questions you want to ask the doctor ...
along with any information your doctor may need from you ...
like a list of all your medicines.
And find out if there are any special instructions ...
like not eating before certain lab tests.
Plan ahead of time with family or friends if you need a ride to your appointment.
And if possible, have someone go with you ...
to help take notes and help remember important information.
And always make sure to call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
So ... now that you've a heard a few tips ...
which of these ideas could help you with your doctor appointments?
