Questions to Ask Your Doctor at Your First Appointment

That first doctor’s appointment with a new rheumatologist can be stressful, no matter how long you’ve lived with lupus. You might be a veteran lupus warrior who is switching doctors due to moving to a new city, needing a change, or finding a new doctor after yours retires. You might also be a newly diagnosed patient who has been searching for answers for a long time.

Waiting to meet your doctor

As you sit on the exam table waiting to meet your new doctor, you’ll probably feel a mixture of emotions.

Hope that you’re finally about to feel better after feeling sick for so long.

Anxiety that this doctor will be like the many other doctors who didn’t listen or take your symptoms seriously.

Awkwardness or shyness at having to share personal details about your body with someone you just met.

Know that it’s normal to feel these emotions.

Coming prepared

When you are a lupus patient, going to the doctor is a vital part of managing your health. The doctor you choose and the working relationship you build with them has an impact on your well-being.

That’s why it’s important to come prepared to a first appointment with a new doctor. Asking questions about issues that affect your health not only provides you with valuable information. It also helps you get to know the person in front of you wearing a white coat so you can decide if they’re the right doctor for you.

Questions for your new doctor

How long do you take to respond to calls?

A minor flare can turn into a major problem fast. For nearly all lupus patients, the speed at which your doctor prescribes medication or refills prescriptions is important.

Do they typically answer the pharmacy’s request within a day or two? Rather than accepting vague answers like “soon,” push for an exact length of time (ex. “Two days”).

How quickly can I get in if I need an emergency appointment?

Many doctors keep appointment slots open for emergencies. Make sure your new doctor is willing and able to see you within a day or two if you suddenly become sicker. Watch out for doctors who tell you to go to the emergency room for an issue that is urgent, but could be resolved at their office.

There is certainly a time and place for the emergency room. Your doctor should tell you which symptoms necessitate an ER visit.

However, keep in mind that emergency room doctors are trained to stabilize their patients and to treat acute injuries. They may not have the specialized knowledge that a rheumatologist has about your disease, nor will they be familiar with you as a patient.

What symptoms should I go to the hospital for and which symptoms just require a doctor’s appointment?

A good rheumatologist should be able to tell you this right away.

What medications should I take and what side effects/interactions should I watch out for?

If you are newly diagnosed, be sure to ask this if your doctor doesn’t bring it up. If you have been taking the same medications for years and they’re effective, be wary of a doctor who wants to change them for no apparent reason. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

A good doctor doesn’t just prescribe medication; they talk with you about specific medications to make sure you’re both on the same page. They also make sure you’re aware of any side effects or interactions.

How can I keep track of my symptoms?

Communication between doctor and patient is essential. Can you email or call with any new symptoms? Also ask if your doctor can recommend any symptom tracking apps.