How to get the healthcare you deserve? If you share any of these feelings. Fear goes away. You can prepare for a change and you can actively participate in your own healthcare reform. It’s start with a simple conversation.

Many patients fear total honesty, or they don’t want to be judged by their doctor, or they forget to mention certain symptoms. Remember that you are in control at your office visit, and while your doctor does not have hours to spend being a therapist, he or she should have time to really listen to you and figure out what is ailing you.

The following recommendations should help to make your visits to the doctor’s office smoother.

Scheduling. When making your initial appointment. Ask the receptionist if you can have an appointment before lunch, but not the first appointment of the day. Your doctor needs to maintain a strict schedule and will have to be more deliberate at the very beginning of the day just in case all of his or her appointments show up that day.

Preparation. Think about why you are actually scheduling this appointment. What does your pain feel like and to what degree is it hurting you? Is it a sharp, shooting pain? Is there swelling? Once you establish the best way to describe your ailments, write them down. Bring this paperwork with you.

Arrival. Do not show up late. Get there at least 20 minutes early. You may even get in earlier if the appointment before you is a no show. At the very least. If you are on time, you are making sure you maximize the time you have with your doctor.

Appointment.When you are with the doctor. Be specific and brief, and know what ailments run in your family. Your doctor may not need to hear about your pets or jobs, but he does need to hear about the persistent pain in your lower back.

Requests. Do you know what you want in regard to treatment? Did friends of yours recommend a certain medication? If your doctor does not agree with what you have requested, he or she will tell you that it is not advisable. Ultimately, you’re going to go home and choose to follow what you wish. The doctor can only suggest treatments.

Treatment. Follow that you are told by your doctor fully. A Common mistake that people make is deciding that the medicine prescribed has already worked and so finishing the dosage is a waste of time. Your doctor wants you to fully heal, not just kind of feel better. Do not self-medicate. If you feel as though the medicine is no longer necessary. Call your doctor and ask what is recommended.

Follow up. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the doctor or nurses on staff, particularly if you are having a reaction to a medication.

Remember, at the end of the day, your doctor is there to help you.