Uploaded January 2015 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Always get a copy of the test(s) you just had and keep those in a folder. I keep mine on Word documents or in my photo library; sometimes I whip out my iPhone and take photos of my records, which obviates the need to get copies, and I have those in special medical records folders.
If you are on a lot of meds, you can keep your own personal medication administration record.
In between office appointments, keep adding to your list of questions on Notes for the next office appointment. During the appointment, get permission to record the consult and have the voice memo app running while you refer to your list of questions on Note Pad or Notes. That way, the consult time will be very efficiently spent and all your questions will get answered. Furthermore, the recording will allow you to transcribe what the doctor said, which you will have for future reference.
For more information on "How to Live Well With Chronic Illness", visit http://www.larryberkelhammer.com. Larry Berkelhammer is also the author of, "In Your Own Hands: New Hope for People with Chronic Medical Conditions: Mindfulness-Based Practices for Mastery and Wellbeing".
Get a FREE Preview of "In Your Own Hands..." larryberkelhammer.com/free-preview
The purpose of these videos and my website is to provide evidence-based information on how to live with self-care mastery. It is for all medical patients, caregivers, and advocates who want to learn how to collaborate with physicians to optimize the efficacy of your medical care.
Always get a copy of the test(s) you just had and keep those in a folder. I keep mine on Word documents or in my photo library; sometimes I whip out my iPhone and take photos of my records, which obviates the need to get copies, and I have those in special medical records folders.
If you are on a lot of meds, you can keep your own personal medication administration record.
In between office appointments, keep adding to your list of questions on Notes for the next office appointment. During the appointment, get permission to record the consult and have the voice memo app running while you refer to your list of questions on Note Pad or Notes. That way, the consult time will be very efficiently spent and all your questions will get answered. Furthermore, the recording will allow you to transcribe what the doctor said, which you will have for future reference.
For more information on "How to Live Well With Chronic Illness", visit http://www.larryberkelhammer.com. Larry Berkelhammer is also the author of, "In Your Own Hands: New Hope for People with Chronic Medical Conditions: Mindfulness-Based Practices for Mastery and Wellbeing".
Get a FREE Preview of "In Your Own Hands..." larryberkelhammer.com/free-preview
The purpose of these videos and my website is to provide evidence-based information on how to live with self-care mastery. It is for all medical patients, caregivers, and advocates who want to learn how to collaborate with physicians to optimize the efficacy of your medical care.
