If you're like me, you can get a little nervous when you go to the doctor's office. This happened to me especially when I became a teenager and my mom wouldn't check me in anymore and I had to fill out all my own paperwork. Without any guidance, I felt like all of a sudden I was thrown into a medical world I didn't understand. Copays? Insurance? Family medical history? I had no idea. However, now I work on the other end of this spectrum at the front desk of an urgent care clinic. I've now become well-adjusted to the ins and outs of a doctor's office. So, here are some of my most important tips for being prepared for your appointments, as well as staying calm during your visit.
First, make sure to familiarize yourself with your or your family's insurance plan. A quick Wikipedia search between an HMO or a PPO plan should explain some basics, such as whether or not you need a referral for different doctors' offices. Also, check on your insurance card or call your insurance company to verify what your expected copay typically should be so you are prepared and not surprised when you have to pay at your appointment.
As a front desk staff member, I can also say this: don't be embarrassed. When making an appointment, let us know what the issue is, even if it might seem odd or embarrassing. By knowing the intent of your visit, it better prepares the doctor and the nurses who will be assisting you to care for you properly. However, if you still feel uncomfortable telling the person at the front desk about your issue, it is still OK to say that it's very personal, and the doctor will then speak with you about it.
For teens or young adults, it can be hard when you finally have an appointment without an adult with you. To prepare, ask a parent if any family members have had any medical issues the doctors might ask about, such as cancers or blood pressure issues.
Once you get to the office to check-in, make sure to give your name and the name of the provider you are seeing so that the front desk can check you in. Make sure to always have a form of ID and your insurance card, too. When leaving your appointment, always make sure to stop back at the front desk to check out of your appointment and to schedule your next visit. This prevents the office from having to call you again to schedule and is overall quicker and easier for everyone.
The doctor's office shouldn't be a scary place. Ideally, it is a place to feel safe and supported for your needs and concerns. So try not to be embarrassed or nervous because the people there just want to help you the best that they can.
