Get the Most out of the Doctor

NASHVILLE (Ivanhoe Broadcast News) -- An average doctor's visit lasts only 10 to 15 minutes ... not a lot of time! Making the most out of that visit is important ... but how do you do it?

Jim Jirjis, M.D., an internal medicine specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, says it starts with scheduling. "In general, offices are busier Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays," he says.

Try to make your visit Wednesday or Thursday morning. And ask the receptionist how long you'll have with the doc. "That way, you have time to go through all your issues," Dr. Jirjis says. Make two appointments if you think you'll need more time. Also, write down your issues and print out anything you've read on the Internet. "A lot of people think that may intimidate the doctor, but it's actually very helpful."

When describing symptoms, use words like throbbing, dull or burning -- not just "it hurts." To make blood draws less painful -- drink about two cups of water about an hour before. Always double-check for your name on the label during any tests.

Bringing all your meds to your first visit can help the physician get a complete look at your health regimen. Dr. Jirjis says, "Deliberately ask the doctor, is there anything I don't need to take anymore?"

Other questions:

• How do I know if I'm improving?
• How do I know if my treatment is working?

Most importantly -- be realistic. Dr. Jirjis says, "I think the more patients are able to understand the reality of the doctor's office, I think the less irritated or frustrated they'll be when they have to wait." He also doesn't recommend e-mailing your doctor because many doctors don't check their email often enough. Also, make sure you have one primary care doctor who is aware of the other docs you're seeing and all the meds you're taking.

This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, which offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, click on: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.

For more information, please contact:

Jim Jirjis
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
(615) 936-1177
jim.jirjis@vanderbilt.edu