Preparing for a Doctor's Visit with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

By Lisa Emrich, Health Guide Friday, September 12, 2008
Do you ever leave your doctor’s office and think of questions you forgot to ask?   I’ve done this too many times, but now I’ve developed a plan which has turned out to be highly successful.  Here’s what I do.   Create a Fact Sheet   For each doctor&rs...
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Anonymous
Dianr J Standiford
9/13/08 5:27am

I type (and email ahead of time if allowed) the goal I want to reach for the year and what I plan to do. Then I include what kind of help I would like from the Dr. to reach my goal. If I have done research on Internet, then I copy info and get it to Dr. ahead of visit. I take 2 copies of my questions and goals, leaving one with Dr. for my file. This makes a real team feeling and we both have somethings to be held accountable for. Responses from my Drs. have been very positive.

Lisa Emrich, Health Guide
9/13/08 9:09am

Hi Diane,

 

What a pro-active idea.  I had not thought in terms of Goals, but I guess the things I tend to include on my Fact Sheet would complement this philosophy.  I, too, like to print out a copy to leave with the doctor in my file.  

 

Including research that you've done is an excellent idea!!  That certainly gives you something to discuss and incorporate in your treatment plan if appropriate.  I often ask question about research I've read, but not necessarily for me personally, but to learn more about the topic.

 

Thanks for stopping by, I really appreciate your comments.

 

Lisa

 

Merely Me, Health Guide
9/15/08 2:36pm

I was shocked to find on two visits to my neurologist that they did not have my scans right there.  I had wanted to ask specific questions about my MRI's but there was nothing to look at.  Since then I have a copy of them on computer disc to take with me so there are no excuses.  Patients are entitled to copies of MRI's and they are for free. 

 

I suppose there could be lots of different questions one might ask ....I am always wanting to know about the latest treatments. 

 

Good post Lisa...something we all need to think about as we will be seeing neurologists for....well...awhile. 

Anonymous
Anonymous
9/16/08 7:45pm

how do I view the MRI disc?

9/17/08 3:37am

 Relaxing By The Fire I have found out that the different treatment have sites and they even send out journals for you to use. I get one from rebif and I used to get one from coplexal as well. Each of these books have were you can list meds, insurance, doctors, appoints, and a place where you can list goals and even any problems you may be having between visits. I fill each month out and list any problems as well as the victories I have.  I also put down any meeting that may be up coming I would like to attend.  Each one of the books also have web site you can go to for help. That haw I found this site. If you don't have a book form these meds just buy one at the store and make sure that it has a place for you to put a cd with your info. Good luck and stay safe.

Lisa Emrich, Health Guide
9/17/08 11:42am

Thanks Susan.  I too received the calendar/journal from Shared Solutions.  But for me, it was a clumsy item which I NEVER fully used.  And I had a hard time imagining how I would flip through the pages to discuss things with my doctor.

 

We each have our own styles for keeping records and staying on track.  Sometimes it takes a little experimentation before finding a preferred method.  It's great that we can share what works for each of us and to be able to get new ideas.  Thanks.

By Lisa Emrich, Health Guide— Last Modified: 07/17/11, First Published: 09/12/08