Maximizing Your Chance of Success at the Doctor’s Office

Maximizing Your Success at the Doctor’s Office

Going to the doctor can feel intimidating. Too often, I see people shrink in the exam room, treating the doctor like an all-knowing figure instead of a partner in their care. The truth is, you are not just a list of symptoms — you're a person with needs, preferences, and a voice. Here’s how you can stay connected to yourself and make the most of your doctor’s visits.

1. Don’t Lose Yourself in the Room

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and go quiet, but remember that the doctor is there to help you. You know your body better than anyone, so show up as a whole person, not just a patient. Bring your full self into the room, and don’t be afraid to speak up.

2. Come with a Plan

Don’t wait for the doctor to drive the conversation. Come in with a list of things you want to discuss. An organized approach sets the tone and shows you’re serious about your health. Doctors often appreciate when patients have clear, specific questions — it helps the appointment flow more smoothly.

3. Be Honest and Thorough

When asked about symptoms, be as detailed as possible. If you notice changes or have experienced something before, mention it. Full context helps your doctor make better decisions about your care.

4. Take Notes

If you get nervous or tend to forget things, bring a notebook and pen. Jot down key points and recommendations during the visit. It’s an easy way to stay engaged and remember details for later.

5. Stay Open-Minded About Doctors

Not every doctor will be compatible, and that’s okay. Sometimes it’s the front desk staff or the nurse that gives you a bad feeling. Trust your instincts — it’s okay to find someone new if the vibe is off. To normalize this, here are actual reasons I’ve switched providers:

• She put her hand in my face to make me stop talking.

• He was booked months out, making it impossible to get care when I needed it.

• She had a strong bias against naturopathic medicine, which led to dismissive, unproductive conversations.

• She overgeneralized the results of studies, making absolute statements like, “You will get sick if you stop this medication,” when the literature didn’t support that.

Trust your gut. If something feels off it’s perfectly fine to move on and find someone who aligns with your needs. Finding the right provider might take time, but it’s worth it.

Oh, and don’t let a bad experience keep you from seeking care — the right doctor will make a huge difference!

6. Be Prepared for Delays

Some doctors run late, some don’t. You can’t control that, but you can control how you handle it. Bring water, snacks, and something to occupy your time in case you have to wait. Your comfort matters.

Tip: Some clinics welcome a phone call to check if the provider is running late that day. It can save you some time and frustration!

7. Ask Questions

If you don’t understand something or want more information, ask. Don’t hesitate to ask “why” behind a recommendation, or what the next steps will be if something doesn’t work. Doctors see a variety of patients — some want a lot of details, others just want the facts. By asking questions, you make it clear what kind of patient you are.

8. Know Your Decision-Making Style

Some people make decisions quickly, while others need time to process. Know what works for you. If you need time to think, say so. There’s nothing wrong with taking a moment to consider your options.

9. Plan for Step 2 While on Step 1

If the unknown makes you anxious, ask about next steps early. For example, if you're getting test results, ask what happens if the results come back a certain way. Knowing the plan can save you unnecessary stress.

10. Build Relationships with Support Staff

Nurses, PAs, assistants, and administrative staff are key players in your care. Learn who handles what and work with them. Being collaborative with the entire healthcare team makes your experience smoother.

11. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for What You Need

If you’re uncomfortable with something, say so. You don’t have to go along with every request. I’ve asked for no residents in the room and even for doctors to wake me up during procedures so I could watch — and they’ve been surprisingly accommodating.

That said, not every request will be granted — like the time I asked a nurse if I could take a pillow home while I was waking up from surgery. To be fair, I think I had just told her she was pretty and immediately asked for my eye glasses, so I understand why she wasn’t exactly eager to give me a souvenir!

When it comes to your health, you are the most important voice in the room. By staying organized, asking questions, and advocating for yourself, you can ensure your doctor’s appointments are productive, respectful, and even empowering.