Calm Through the Chaos: Aging & Healthcare Made Simple
Series 2: The Appointment — And What Comes After
Welcome back to Calm Through the Chaos. In Series 1, we talked about how to make a medical appointment and what to do beforehand to be prepared. Now let’s talk about what happens during the appointment — and just as importantly — what to do after.
During the Appointment
- Bring Your List of Questions:
It’s easy to forget what you wanted to ask once the doctor walks in, especially if you’re feeling nervous or rushed. A written list will help keep you focused and make sure your concerns are heard. - Bring Paper & Pen:
Jotting down notes helps you remember important information like new diagnoses, medication instructions, or follow-up steps. If a loved one is with you, have them help with note-taking. - Ask for Clarification:
If something is unclear — speak up. You have the right to understand everything that’s said about your health.
After the Appointment
- Get Your “After Visit Summary”:
Before you leave, the medical assistant or patient care coordinator should give you a printout of your visit. This summary includes:- Why you were seen
- What the doctor recommended
- Any medications prescribed and where they were sent
- Lab or test orders
- Follow-up instructions and timeframes
- Check Your Online Health Portal (Like MyChart):
More detailed notes, test results, and future instructions may be posted online.- If you haven’t set up your account yet, ask the office to help you.
- If you don’t use a computer or smartphone, ask if they can mail you printed updates. Be sure to confirm your mailing address.
Follow-Up Appointments
- Some offices will schedule follow-ups immediately.
- Others may say they’ll call you — or ask you to call them.
Clarify their process before you leave, so you’re not left waiting or wondering.
Stay Organized at Home
- Use a calendar (paper or digital) to mark:
- Follow-up appointments
- Lab test dates
- Prescription refill timelines
- Keep a list of your providers:
- Doctor names
- Their specialties
- Clinic address, phone & fax numbers
- Create a designated space for all medical paperwork.
A binder, file folder, or dedicated drawer can keep things easy to find when you need them.
Final Thoughts
The more familiar you become with the full appointment process — before, during, and after — the more confident and calm you’ll feel. Good record-keeping, asking questions, and having a system at home can make all the difference. You are your best advocate.
Stay tuned for Series 3, where we’ll dive into lab, imaging, test results and how to follow up when things get missed.
Until then — stay calm, stay informed, and take good care.
LadyFlava of LadyFlavaNews
Health and Wellness Series
SERIES 2
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