You and your doctor are a team, and working closely with him or her-asking questions, listening carefully and following his or her advice is good for your health.

Before your doctor's visit:

• Make a list of your symptoms, past history, associated diseases, any family history of major ailments
• Make a list of your questions and concerns
• Make a list of all the medications you are taking including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and other natural remedies
• Ask a friend or family member to come with you, if you think it will be helpful

During your visit:

• Go through the list of questions or concerns with the doctor, asking the most important question first
• Discuss your symptoms if you have a health problem and any recent changes you may have noticed
• Share any known allergies to medications, food, pollen or any other substance
• Talk to the doctor about your family's health history
• Tell the doctor if other doctors are treating you
• Ask questions about prescriptions, treatment and test results
• Take notes, this will help you remember the instructions