Before Your Visit
Author: Dr. Vrolijk | Updated: August 23, 2025 | Disclaimer | Review Process | References
Worried you’ll forget to mention something important? Not sure what to bring to your appointment? Wondering how to make the most of your limited time with the doctor?
This page helps you know what to bring and what’s important to talk about during your appointment.
On This Page:
Why Preparing Helps
Most Doctors Appreciate You Coming Prepared
Most doctors appreciate when patients bring organized information. It helps them give you better care in the limited time you have together.
You Won't Forget the Important Stuff
The average doctor visit is 15-20 minutes. Writing things down beforehand means you’ll cover what matters most to you, not just what you happen to remember.
What to Bring
Your Medication
- Easiest: Bring all your pill bottles
- Alternatives: Take photos of the labels. Or write down the names, doses, and how often you take them
Don’t forget vitamins, supplements, and anything you buy without a prescription
Insurance & Payment
You’ll need your insurance cards, photo ID, and payment for any copays.
Not sure what your copay will be? Call ahead and ask.
Health Information
Bring any notes about your symptoms or questions
Can Be Helpful
- A support person to help you remember questions you might have and take notes
- Pen and paper
- Phone charger, snack, and water (especially for longer appointments)
Organize Your Health Information
Don’t worry about getting everything perfect. Any information helps.
Start Here
- Your main concern: What’s bothering you most?
- When it started: This week? Last month? It’s okay if you’re not sure. Your best estimate is helpful.
- What helps/hurts: Does anything make your symptoms better or worse?
- Previous treatments: What have you tried before?
If You Have Time
- Family health history: Focus on parents and siblings.
- Your current medications: You can bring the bottles with you, take photos, or write them down
Don't Have This Info?
That’s okay! A lot of people have a hard time answering these questions. Your doctor can help figure out what’s important and how to get missing information.
Write Down Your Questions & Concerns
Making a list of questions and concerns helps you remember them during your appointment. You can even give this list to your doctor.
Things That Are Helpful to Talk About
- Any new symptoms you’ve noticed
- New supplements or medicines you’re taking
- Any questions you have about your health or medical care
- If you are having a hard time taking your medicine
- Any side effects
- If there are lifestyle changes you want to do but are having a hard time
- Money problems that make it hard to buy medicine or food
- If you’re feeling stressed about your health
- If you are feeling very sad or have thoughts of hurting yourself
Quick Answers
It depends on the type of appointment, so call and ask if you’re unsure.
For most regular office visits, go about your day normally (eat, drink water, take your medications). You can’t eat before some blood tests, so call if you’re unsure. If you’re getting a procedure (like a surgery or colonoscopy), call the office. They’ll be able to tell you how long beforehand you should stop eating/drinking.
Here are some helpful questions for a new doctor:
- How should I contact you with questions?
- What should I know about your practice?
- What should I do if I have an urgent problem?
Ask anything else you’d like to know about the doctor or practice.
If you want, yes. Having someone there with you can help you remember to ask quesitons and bring up concerns. They can also help you take notes.
If the person is in another location – Tell the nurse that you want to call them. They can tell you when to get them on the phone.
If the person you want to bring with you is unavailable – Ask to record your appointment. You can send it to your support person after the visit.
Usually yes for regular office visits, but call if you’re unsure. You can’t drink water before surgery and many procedures.
You don’t need to shower more than usual. Doctors see all kinds of people and understand you might be coming from work or other commitments.
What to Read Next
Resources We Used
Clinical experience from multiple physicians
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