Your Doctor

Give your doctor as much information as possible

Your doctor isn't a mind-reader so be sure to tell him or her about any current and past health care issues or concerns - including the embarrassing bits.

Discuss the following information with your doctor during your visit:

• Symptoms you are having
• Your health history
• A lifestyle snapshot, including whether you are stressed or if your life is changing.
• Any medicines you are currently taking. Include information about when and how often you take the medicine and the dosage you are taking.
• Any side effects you are having from your medicine, if you think you may be allergic to it or if its making you feel sick.
• Any vitamins or supplements you are taking.
• Any x-rays, tests results or medical records you have. Bring them along to the appointment if possible.

Ask, ask, ask

If you don't understand something, let your doctor know. If you don't ask questions, your doctor will rightly presume you understand.
If the topic is complex and confusing, it might be helpful to ask for additional sources of information such as leaflets and website addresses. You can digest the material at your leisure when you get home.

We often have a number of questions to ask but forget them during the consultation, so it's a good idea to write down anything that's bothering you before your visit and make sure you tick off all the topics when you get to the surgery.

And if, by any chance, you think of a question after you have left the surgery, call your doctor back to discuss the matter. If your doctor can't come to the phone, ask that they call you later.

Make a note of it

It's completely acceptable to take notes at the visit to help you to remember information and instructions when you get home.

This could be anything from instructions on how often to take your medication to possible side effects it might have.

Follow up with your doctor

Make sure to follow any instructions your doctor gave you during the appointment, like taking medicine, booking a test or an appointment with a specialist.

If you're confused about anything, your doctor would prefer that you call if you are in any doubt.

You should also get back onto your doctor if your start to feel worse or experience any problems or unacceptable side effects with your medicine.

Keep receipts

Don't forget to keep all the receipts you get for costs of visits to your doctor. Apart from claiming back any qualifying costs from Hibernian Aviva Health, you may also be eligible for tax relief on any expenses which aren't covered by us.