1. Summarise your main concern

Before the appointment, write one sentence describing what concerns you and what you hope to clarify. If you have several topics, place them in order of importance.

2. Note how your symptoms have changed

Prepare a short timeline: when they started, whether they are constant or intermittent, what makes them better or worse and whether they have changed. Use your own words; medical terminology is not necessary.

3. Prepare your medication list

Include prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and supplements. Note the name, dose and frequency, or bring clear photographs of the packaging. Include known allergies and previous reactions to medicines.

4. Gather relevant documents

  • Recent reports related to the reason for your appointment.
  • Blood test, scan or imaging results.
  • A list of important diagnoses, operations and medical history.
  • For an online appointment, readable files sent through the requested channel.

5. Bring your questions

It helps to prioritise two or three questions: what options are available, which signs to watch for, when improvement may be expected and how test results will be communicated.

Before you leave: make sure you understand the plan, how to take any medication, the next steps and when you should seek further medical advice.

An important note

This is general educational information. It does not replace an individual medical assessment and should not be used to diagnose a condition or change treatment on your own.

Sources