Questions to ask a doctor before making an initial appointment
What type of medical insurance does the doctor accept? (Check with your insurance company to see if he is on their preferred provider list)
If you have a scheduled appointment, how long is the office wait before you actually see the doctor?
What are the after-hour policies? Does the on call doctor have access to your medical records?
If you need to see a doctor that day, are there problems with scheduling the office visit?
Which laboratory processes the samples? Is this lab on your preferred provider list?
Is there ample parking by the doctor’s office that is easily accessible?
Before going to the office
Have you written out before hand all the questions you have concerning your particular problem?
Do you have a complete and updated list of all your medications? How frequently they are taken, the strength or dosage of the medication and why in particular this medication was prescribed to you.
Are there any other issues you want do discuss with the doctor besides the primary problem for which you made the appointment? Write them down so do don’t forget them.
Does your spouse/partner have any questions he/she would like to ask the doctor? Again write them down.
If this doctor is new to you, did you bring a complete medical history from a previous doctor with you?
Do you have any questions about any medical equipment you are using?
Is it making any strange sounds?
Do you feel it is functioning properly?