HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR NEXT DOCTOR'S VISIT

<p>Many of us simply hate the thought of going to the doctor. It makes us feel uncomfortably vulnerable, takes time out of our busy schedules and all too often leaves us frustrated and dissatisfied.</p><p>But you have finally decided you need to go; you've had worrisome symptoms that aren't getting better, and your friends and family keep telling you to ``Go see the doctor!''</p><p>Here are some tips for getting the most out of your next visit.</p><p>First, have realistic expectations; very few doctors practice like Marcus Welby. Offices are busier than ever, with more patients than ever. Patient-doctor relationships have changed, along with the business of medicine.</p><p>The physician's job is much different than it was even 10 years ago. Primary-care doctors have to see, on average, 130 patients a week to generate enough income to cover their office expenses.</p><p>In addition to seeing patients each day, they must write detailed notes that will pass the scrutiny of lawyers and insurance companies.</p><p>They must return phone calls from patients, review and authorize prescription refill requests, review and manage lab and X-ray results, respond to specialty consultations and visit patients in the hospital. It takes a talented manager to make all this fit into one day's schedule.</p><p>However, if your doctor is consistently seeing you an hour later than your appointment time, you have the right to find another doctor who is more available. You have the right to expect your doctor to listen to you, to be well informed about health issues and to share that knowledge with you.</p><p>You have the right to understand your treatment options and to make your own decisions about which of those options are right for you.</p><p>Unless you have booked an annual physical, for which doctors will usually set aside a larger block of time, you can expect your physician to give you his or her full attention for about 10 to 15 minutes.</p><p>Prior to calling for the appointment, have a clear idea of what your problem is: this is not about self-diagnosis, but rather taking the time to succinctly describe what is bothering you.</p><p>You need to provide the receptionist with enough information so that she can set aside the right amount of time for you with the doctor.</p><p>There is no need to share intimate details at this time, but be honest about the problem -- it will get you better results when you get to the exam room.</p><p>Make a list of concerns and questions before your visit and take it with you. Make it brief and to the point. Having your thoughts organized before the doctor comes into the room saves valuable time for both of you. Be sure your list is realistic for the amount of time you have; don't pad it at the last minute and expect to get all those ``extras'' covered.</p><p>Although it is tempting to take advantage of an opportunity to ask about other concerns, it is also important to be aware of the doctor's time limitations. A single-problem visit is just that: Time to thoroughly address one problem. Expect to make another appointment if you have a long list of issues to discuss.</p><p>Learn to work with the office staff. Find out how they handle prescription refills, requests for tests and referrals. Work with the staff for administrative needs so you can use your time with the doctor for medical needs. A well run office will help you make that distinction.</p><p>Medicine may no longer look like it did in Marcus Welby's day, but it is still possible to get excellent and compassionate care if physicians and patients work together with an understanding of each other's needs.</p><p>.</p><p>Longtime Sonoma County family practitioner Dr. Stacey Kerr, a graduate of UC Davis Medical School, is certified in her specialty by the American Board of Family Medicine. Her columns are not intended as a substitute for hands-on medical advice or treatment. Consult your health care provider before adhering to any recommendations in this column. Reader comments can be e-mailed to drkerr@the-doctors-inn.com.</p>