There are several things you should take with you to each medical appointment.

In my article How To Create a Personal Health Record

I talk about the importance of keeping a personal health record (PHR). A PHR is an easily accessible database of your medical records, prescription information, health conditions, doctors and medical establishments you use, medical tests and procedures you have had, emergency contact information, immunization status and other important information regarding your health.

Take your PHR

Having this information with you will ensure that you can provide all the necessary information required during your visit.

Insurance and ID

Many medical facilities ask for your ID and insurance card at each visit.

List of Symptoms

Write down any symptoms you are experiencing. Include when the symptoms started, when and how often they happen, what makes them better or worse and what kind of limitations you have because of the symptoms.

Other Doctors You Have Seen Recently

If you have seen other doctors or specialists for the same issue, bring the name of the doctor and medical facility, any test results, doctors notes, medications and other important information with you.

Referral Letter

If you have a referral letter from another doctor, bring that along.

List of Questions

Write down a list of questions you want to ask your doctor starting with the most important. Having a list helps you remember everything you want to ask.

Pen, Paper & Smartphone

Take a notebook and pen along, jot down anything the doctor tells you that you need to remember. Write down the answers you are given from your list of questions. When you get home add this information to your PHR.

You can also use your smartphone to take notes and lookup information. Use a password manager on your phone. In the password manager keep a list of your insurance cards, drivers license, social security number and other important information. A password manager is a secure database that can hold not only usernames and passwords but other important information as well.

Food & Drink

Some appointments and tests can take a long time. Unless you have been advised to fast take along something to eat and drink.

Something to Read

Take along a book, magazine, or puzzle book to pass the time.