How can I prepare for my first appointment?

It is important for you to be an active member of your health care team. Before your first appointment:

• Learn about your family history. Your doctor wants to know about family members who have health problems. It is important to know about conditions like diabetes, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease or infertility. Family members include your mother, father, brothers, sisters and grandparents.
• Bring a list of your questions. Think about what you want to ask your doctor. Write down your concerns. Share your list with your doctor at the start of your visit. Getting the answers to your questions is an important part of your visit.
• Bring a written list of the medicines you are taking. Include prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs and other supplements. Give this list to the doctor at the start of your visit.
• Ask a family member or trusted friend to come with you. They can take notes, give you support and help you remember what was said. They can ask questions too.

When you meet with the doctor:

• Describe your symptoms. When did they start? How do they make you feel? Has anything helped make them better?
• Be honest about your health when talking about your diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol or drug use and sexual history.
• Describe allergies to drugs, foods or other things.
• Let your doctor know if other doctors or nurses, including mental health providers, are treating you.
• Understand everything before you leave your visit. If you don’t understand something, ask the doctor to explain it again.