Visiting the doctor's office can often be challenging. Whether it's due to our hectic schedules or the sensory overload of the waiting room, the reasons can be multifarious. However, the most commonly cited reason is that communicating effectively with doctors can be an uphill task. This can occur when physicians speak too quickly or do not provide ample opportunity for questions. Alternatively, they may inadvertently invalidate their patients' experiences or disregard the symptoms being described. This scenario can pose difficulties for anyone, but for neurodivergent individuals, the experience can be even more daunting. Here are some strategies to help navigate this process:
1. Prepare in advance - Prior to your doctor's visit, jot down the reasons for your appointment, the questions you wish to ask, and the most crucial information that the medical team should know about your condition. Documenting your symptoms, their impacts, and their duration can be immensely helpful. Be sure to also note any personal boundaries or specific sensory needs you would like the medical staff to be aware of.
2. Bring a support person - Visiting the doctor can be overwhelming. Having a trusted person accompanying you, such as a family member, partner, or close friend, can offer comfort and reassurance. If you feel at ease, discuss your prepared notes with your support person to enable them to assist you in communicating with the doctor. Make sure to communicate your expectations about their role during the visit, helping them understand how they can best support you.
3. Speak up - Remember, you are the focal point of the meeting! You are the authority on your life and your body, and it is entirely acceptable to speak up. Prior to any procedures or examinations, you have the right to ask the medical staff to thoroughly explain what will happen, how they will interact with you, and what you should expect. If you prefer not to be weighed, you can politely decline when led to the scale. Be assertive about your needs and ensure that your doctor acknowledges them. Above all, remember that this is your appointment and your body.
4. Ask questions - Don't hesitate to seek clarifications! Whether it's about medication instructions, symptoms to watch for, or follow-up visits, you have the right to understand all aspects of your treatment. Preparing some generic questions before the appointment can be handy, as it's easy to forget them in the potentially stressful environment of a doctor's office or hospital room.
5. Review the appointment notes - If you have online access to your medical records, take the time to review the notes from your visit. This could include a visit summary or the doctor's notes. Reviewing these records can help solidify your understanding of your health status and ensure that your concerns have been accurately documented. If there's any discrepancy between your discussion and the documented notes, it's perfectly acceptable to reach out to the office or address it in your next appointment. This task can also be delegated to your trusted support person.
What other strategies have you found useful in making your visits to the doctor's office more manageable? We would love to hear about your personal experiences and insights!
Written by Jessica Studer, LICSW