Episode 2: Getting the most out of your clinic visit.
Although you’ve probably been attending doctor appointments for years, you may not know everything that happens around your visit. Lindsey and Kirsten discuss what to expect at an office visit and how to maximize the time you have with your clinician.
Setting an agenda can be a useful tool to ensure that concerns are addressed.
The difference between annual exams and rechecks is discussed.
New research and changing health status of our population has led to changes in the annual exam. The utility of a head-to-toe exam in patients with no symptoms is surprisingly low. Similarly, screening urine and some other routine labs when patients are asymptomatic is not helpful. Most parts of the physical exam that screen for cancer have not been proven to result in better outcomes and sometimes result in harm through further testing and procedures.
Depending on health status, an “annual exam” may not be needed every year. We discuss how frequent an “annual exam” or other appointment is needed for certain age groups and health conditions.
We discuss how we review your chart before seeing you in the clinic.
Follow up question: we explain the role of a primary care physician for a patient who sees multiple sub-specialists.
Health Pearl: Kirsten enjoys running. She has found the Nike Run Club app not only makes her runs more enjoyable, but assists her in becoming a better runner through in-app coaching. Check out Nike Run Club at the App store.
Email us with questions, comments, or suggestions for future topics at mail@everythingdoc.com