Taking notes to the doctor.
I always have notes for my doctors about my health status and requests I have. Usually way too many!
And I've always felt that I should write them on paper (or print them, if my hands hurt a lot). I do this because I feel like it helps them take me more seriously.
But yesterday, I went to the neurologist with the notes on my phone. My two boys are obsessed with pens and paper so I tuck them away outside of arts and crafts time. I just ran out of time to jot down my notes. However, I realized 2 other advantages to writing down my notes after this experience:
1) the process of writing them down often brings other issues to mind. I forgot to bring up something important at my appointment yesterday.
2) I was just too embarrassed to have my phone out during the appointment. I figured I'd explain I was getting the notes out on my phone, but we jumped right into the discussion and I didn't get a chance. But if I'd had a paper on my lap, I would have been able to constantly remind myself of the details just by glancing at it. Plus, almost all doctors will ask about what's on my notes if they see it.
This is a common question - how to bring your thoughts and notes to the doctor? So I wanted to share these two new thoughts after realizing them yesterday. Anything you've learned from taking notes to the doctor? Or tips for doing it?
Great topic! And something I've always struggled with. Weirdly enough, I've always found it easier to bring notes to a telehealth appointment easier than an in-person appointment. I'm not quite sure why that is, though! When I bring notes to an in-person appointment, I typically get nervous and end up only mentioning everything I can remember by memory. I think it has something to do with feeling rushed, and wanting to maintain eye contact when meeting in person. - Cody (Lupus. net Team Member)
That makes sense to me. With telehealth, you can have your notes right next to the screen so it's all available without having to be self-conscious. In person is harder, I try to get my notes out before the doctor comes in the room otherwise I'm unlikely to get them out. Making notes still helps, but it would be even more helpful if doctors didn't make us feel rushed (not all, but some are guilty of this). It's tough to advocate for ourselves. Thanks for sharing! -Ava, lupus.net team
Yes
, have your notes been helpful for you? Do you have any tips or tricks you want to share with the community?
Best, Erin, Lupus.net Team Member.
Yes
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Thanks for chiming in.
Do you find yourself jotting down your concerns/questions as they come up or do you find yourself prepping notes just prior to your appointments?
~Doreen (Team Member)
