Getting the Most from Your Doctor Appointments

Appointments with your HIV specialist can be the difference from a healthy life and one filled with illness. Simply put, regular visits to your HIV physician are an essential part of staying healthy. Getting the most from your doctor appointment is essential. Make every trip the the HIV specialist count. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

Step One - Choose the Right Doctor

HIV is a complex disease that affects the total person, not just the physical self. Because of this it is important to find a doctor who understands the uniqueness and complexities of HIV and AIDS. But that is not enough. You need to find a doctor who you feel comfortable with, whose competence you trust and who is willing to work with you in planning your medical care.

Choosing The Right Doctor

Step Two - Have Your Questions Ready

If you're like me, the minute you walk into your doctor's office, you forget all the questions you had to ask. To combat poor memory, write down questions as they occur to you. Then on the day of your visit, review your list of questions before you leave for the doctor's office. Take the list with you and inform your doctor at the beginning of the visit that you have some questions you would like to discuss with him or her. As you get answers, take notes, again to combat your poor memory. Keep in mind, many of the answers you receive will be very complex and filled with a lot of technical jargon. Make sure you understand the answers before leaving the office. As for written information such as brochures and fact sheets that that you can review in the comfort and quiet of your own home. But how do you know which questions to ask?

Important Fact!
Any question is important if you don't know the answer. Don't ever hesitate to ask and if you do make sure you get an answer before leaving the office.

Questions You Need To Ask

Step Three - Understand Your Medications

Some visits to your doctor will involve getting a new medication regimen. Make certain that you are perfectly clear on how much and on what schedule you should take your new medications. Also be sure the nurse or doctor reviews medication side effects and potential adverse symptoms you may experience. Finally, take any and all printed material offered to you for each drug.

HIV/AIDS Drug Fact Sheets

There will be times that you will not feel much like going to see your doctor. On those days try and remember each visit plays an important role in maintaining your health. Why not make each visit count? If at all possible, attend all of your appointments. Be on time for each visit and make certain your next appointment is made for you prior to leaving the office. Regular health care is essental to staying healthy. Make each visit count because each is important.