Recent issues of this newsletter discussed the value of making lists of symptoms, changes, events, concerns and questions before you visit your doctor, taking that list with you to the visit, and discussing the contents with your doctor.

One of our doctor-friends has helped us improve this approach. She suggests that, at the beginning of the visit, you give a copy of your list to the doctor. By giving the list to the doctor at the beginning, you will help the doctor more readily review all the information and focus on the most important symptoms and events. This approach is especially important these days, when many doctors feel rushed and have to deal with managed care pressure to spend less time with each patient.

Thanks, Doctor B.!