Appointment Preparation

Often when patients are seen we discuss a particular problem and as we are closing, the patient says, “Oh, by the way, there is another little spot I forgot to tell you about”. Occasionally this is a serious skin lesion. To avoid this and other potential problems during the visit, it is good to prepare. Here are some things you can do before your appointment. Start off by making a list of the concerns you have as well as any questions you would like to ask. Secondly, make sure to have an updated list of medications (including all topical creams or ointments) you are taking to bring with you. If you have had any diagnostic lab, biopsy or xray studies done previously, either bring those results with you or have them faxed over from your previous physician. Lastly, make sure to bring your insurance cards as well as a form of ID. If you plan for your visit by doing the above, your appointment will be much more productive and will enable the doctor to provide the best care for you.