When you go to the doctor, you want to get her undivided attention, right?

And you want her to address all of your concerns.

My last PCP (primary care physician) was like this. She would always let me get through my rambling explanation of what was wrong before starting an exam or asking me a question. And at the end of every appointment, she asked me if I had other questions or concerns.

Now, I know this is hard to do. Physicians are overbooked. They have no time. So to be calm and unrushed during an appointment is a true gift.

But I think that you can cultivate this type of treatment from your doctor.

First of all, when you make an appointment, have one specific reason for doing so. Don’t postpone appointments until 10 things are wrong.

If you tend to “save up” all your ailments and concerns and then unleash them all at once on your doctor… and if you do this every time you see her… then I’m guessing it will be harder to get the unhurried “I have all the time in the world” treatment.

Yes, I know it’s more expensive this way. And believe me – I hate going to the doctor and dealing with insurance just as much as the next guy.

But I truly believe this will help your physician do a better job… and it will help you get the best care she can possibly provide.

Now, if you do everything right and your doctor still tends to be more of the “rush rush rush” personality type, you may have to coach her a little to respond to your needs.

According to a New York Times article called “Contentious Relationships Between Doctors and Patients,” communicating your needs is key:

“Go to a doctor’s visit with written questions so you don’t forget to ask what’s important to you. If a doctor starts to rush out of the room, stop him or her by saying, ‘Doctor, I still have some questions.’ Patients who are open with their doctors about their feelings and fears will often get the same level of openness in return.”

I also highly recommend – whenever possible – taking an advocate with you to your appointments. This could be your mom, your spouse, your sister, your best friend. Someone who can listen in to what your doctor is saying… ask questions that you may not think of… and recall the doctor’s comments/suggestions once the appointment has ended.

When something scary is going on, my brain tends to freeze up. So I’ve found that having my husband with me ensures that I get all the right information.

If this is impossible, bring a notepad with you. Write down key information. Ask your doctor to repeat things and spell things for you. See if your doctor has any pamphlets or articles on your problem that you can take home.

When it comes down to it, your health is your responsibility. So make sure you don’t let a hurried physician prevent you from getting all the information you need.

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What say you, Internet? Any advice about making sure you get everything you need from your doctor during an appointment?