The well-heeled patient comes to the office with information about themselves, their family, and some paperwork!  All of these allow me to care for you more fully at that visit, while we are face-to-face.

• Immunization status.  This is important for children for their overall health (and because the school system will require them for school entry and sports clearance) AND it is important for all adults.  Usually, the last time adults think of their own vaccines is when they go off to college.
• Drug allergies.  It’s important to know what medications you are allergic to AND the exact reaction you had.  Did you have to go to the emergency room?  or was it an intolerance to a drug (like stomach upset).  The more specific you can be, the better.
• Names and dosages of current medicines.  This includes everything: over the counter medicines, supplements, herbal remedies, and prescription medicines.
• Prior surgeries and conditions.  Did you have your appendix out?  This will alter the physicians care of you with abdominal pain in the future.
• Family history.  Keep track of your parents’ and siblings’ medical problems especially if there were premature deaths (meaning men before age 55 and women before age 65).

Bring your best, most complete self to the doctor’s visit.  You’ll get more complete care.