Your Office Visit

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At Coastal Carolina Family Practice, we understand that a visit to the doctor can often be stressful, especially when you are not feeling well or have a pain that won't subside. In order to maximize your next physician office visit, review the steps below for simple helpful hints and guidelines.

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Before Your Office Visit

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• Make a note of your symptoms, including the order in which the symptoms appeared, as well as anything that makes them better or worse.

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• Make a note of your temperature if you have measured with a thermometer at home.

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• Bring a current list of all medications you are currently taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, herbal products and vitamins.

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• Bring a list of allergies - especially any concerning medicine or food.

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• Know your personal and family medical history, including surgeries, serious illnesses, etc...

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• Evaluate your lifestyle habits, including eating and drinking habits, as well as how much you sleep or exercise.

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• Make a note of any other health concerns about which you may want to speak with your physician.

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• Bring along the address, phone and fax numbers of the pharmacy you prefer to use.

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During Your Office Visit

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• Review the items listed above with your physician.

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• Ask your physician questions, including what he/she thinks the diagnosis/problem may be, as well as what tests, if necessary, are needed.

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• Make sure that you obtain a clear understanding on what your role is in treating your condition, as well as what you can do in the future to prevent any reoccurrences.

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• Find out if a follow-up appointment with your physician is required, or if you should be referred to another physician or specialist.

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• Make sure you understand any possible side effects of any of the medications your physician prescribes during your office visit.

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After Your Office Visit

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• Follow your physician's advice.

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• If you don't understand any of the instructions, don't hesitate to call your physician's office for clarification.

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• If you begin to feel worse or experience side effects from any prescribed medications, contact your physician's office immediately. In urgent matters, do not hesitate to call 911.

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• If you are scheduled for a follow-up visit, make sure to keep your appointment.

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