Switching doctors can be a hassle, but sometimes it’s the best option. Patients who don’t feel that they are getting the kind of treatment they need, who have moved to a new town, or whose current doctors are planning to leave their practices have no choice.
Heading to a new doctor doesn’t have to be stressful, though. Read on to find a few tips that can help readers prepare for their first visits to a new family physician in Wichita, Kansas to help alleviate some of that stress.
Medical History
One of the first things a doctor will do for a new patient is to go over his or her medical history. Patients can facilitate this process by writing down any medical conditions they have, when they were diagnosed with them, how they are being treated, and whether or not they see any specialists about them. Write down lists of current medications, any prior surgeries, and allergies to drugs, foods, and other substances as well.
Note Alternative Therapies
Patients who are using complementary or alternative medicine in their daily lives should make a point of bringing up any treatments they are receiving from their new doctors. These might include herbal remedies, acupuncture, or chiropractic care among other treatment modalities. Doctors need to know if their patients’ complementary treatments might interfere with any medications they will need to prescribe, so it’s important, to be honest.
Lifestyle Issues
It’s essential to answer any questions posed by a family physician in Wichita, Kansas regarding lifestyle choices honestly. These might include questions about diet, drinking, smoking, and illicit drug use, or sleeping habits. Honest answers to these questions will help doctors determine whether or not their new patients are at high risk for developing associated environmental health problems.
Write Down Questions
Patients should make lists of any questions they may have regarding their current health status, lifestyle choices, mental health, sexual health, or other relevant areas of their lives. They should feel comfortable with speaking openly with their doctors, and if they don’t, they should seek a different practice. Check out Wichita Family Medicine Specialists LLC to learn more about one highly-regarded medical practice that can help.
