Getting Older Doesn’t Mean We Can’t Handle the Basics

I had a strange request. One of my clients asked if I would go to the doctor with her. I asked her why she would want me to go along. She explained that when she goes, she becomes tongue tied and can’t seem to focus. She leaves the doctor’s office not knowing what was said and her questions go unanswered.

So, she said, “Go with me. Tell me what was said and get my questions answered.”

I replied no, I don’t think so. I know that people bring family members or friends, sometimes, but I tell my clients when this peculiar issue appears, they should prepare for the visit.

Sounds basic, right? Prepare for the visit. A doctor is not your school principal. You’re not going to be scolded or reprimanded. I remind my client that the doctor is in a service-based business. Sure, he or she went to school for years and his or her training never seems to end, but so what? Doctors provide a service that you are paying for.

I explained that before going to the appointment, write down all of the questions. Think of what you may have forgotten the last time you talked and explain what it is that concerns you and why.

Always have with you a complete list of your medications. Keep a list of all of your physicians and their phone numbers, as well. You do this, not just for your use, but in case you want him to call another doctor.

Many times, especially, now, physician’s assistants are seeing patients in place of the doctor. That’s OK, because many of these professionals are well trained. But, if you need to ask a doctor a question, do ask to see the doctor.

The key, as I tell my clients, is to remember the doctor is not seeing you for free. He or she receives a considerable salary to spend a few minutes with you — and you are entitled to quality service.

We demand quality service when it comes to our auto repair and dry cleaning. The doctor is no exception. It just takes some quiet time to put your requests in writing.

Do I need to write a blog just for this? Yes. It’s important because I want my clients to remain independent. Getting older does not mean we cannot handle the basics. We don’t need help. We don’t need our kids to come with us; we don’t need a friend to come with us. We’ve done these tasks all our lives and we still can. Just prepare by thinking about what you need and writing it down.

Take my advice for what it is… It’s just, as I see it!

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