PREPARE FOR VISITS & CONSIDER TELEMEDICINE

• Bring a list of current medications , prescribed and over the counter

• Write down your questions and concerns . Prioritize them including financial issues

• Have there been any medical or life changes since your last visit?

• Current symptoms - how have they changed (improved, worsened, stable)? Keep a symptom diary. Bring it along

• Communicate effectively : your health care team can’t help if they don’t know

• Know the “next steps” , future appointments, medication changes, refills, etc

Check with your healthcare team –Is telemedicine an option?

Similar planning for “in - person” appointment PLUS:

• What is the process and what technology is needed?

• Plan your labs : are they needed in advance? Do you need an order?

• Plan your location: quiet, well- lit location with strong wi- fi is best

• Plan yourself: consider if you may need to show a body part and wear accessible clothing

• Collect recent vital signs (blood pressure, temp, heart rate) self - serve blood pressure cuff is available at many pharmacies and for purchase