When ranking the most important relationships in your life, your family and friends are probably at the top of the list. But there is another long-term relationship that is not far behind and that’s your relationship with your family doctor.
Think about it – when it comes to achieving and maintaining your optimal level of health and wellness, no one is more essential than your doctor. That’s why you should regard your relationship with your doctor as a partnership and make the most of your time together. Keep reading to learn more about how you can foster the patient-physician relationship with your family doctor.
Ways to Build a Solid Relationship with Your Family Doctor
Communication is at the core of any meaningful and mutually rewarding relationship – including the one between you and your family doctor. Whether you interact in person, by phone, or via telemedicine, you and your physician can promptly work together to address any health concerns you may have, monitor your well-being, and stay up to date with recommended check-ups and screenings.
At Palm Medical Centers, our team of board-certified physicians does more than just oversee your health problems with genuine kindness. They listen to their patients and are especially attentive to their needs. For your part, here are several things you can do as a patient to help make your relationship with your Palm Medical Centers family doctor as beneficial as possible.
Make a List
Before your appointment with your family doctor, make a list of the top health-related questions you would like to have answered. If you are experiencing a medical issue or have a chronic condition, also jot down the symptoms you are currently experiencing and share this information with the doctor.
Tell Them About Your Condition
If the doctor asks you a question about your condition, answer it honestly, however embarrassed you might feel. What is important is that you receive the right treatment and advice for what ails you and truthful answers are necessary to make that happen.
Request a Copy of Your Results
Always request a printed copy of your results so that you can review them in greater detail after your appointment.
Keep Your Documents in One Place
Maintain a file folder of your visits to the doctor containing summaries and notes so you are well-informed about your health for future appointments.
Use the Patient Portal
If your family doctor’s practice has a patient portal, take advantage of it. It can enable you to view your medical history and test results, and conveniently contact your doctor when necessary.
Get to Know Other Providers and Staff
In addition to establishing an ongoing relationship with your family doctor, get to know the practice’s nurses and office staff, all of whom can be valuable sources of information.
Remember, the whole purpose of establishing rapport and building a relationship between you and a family doctor is to assure your optimal well-being. You can achieve this by being open and honest, and by sharing the same health goals and information.
Family Doctor Near You in South and Central Florida
At Palm Medical Centers, our primary care providers have been bringing genuine kindness to senior primary care for 10 years. Our doctors listen to all your concerns, which is why we have a 98% patient satisfaction rate. Through the early detection of medical conditions, they can dramatically improve the likelihood of successful treatment. They can also help when you have urgent care needs.
We have 34 clinics conveniently located throughout Florida and Texas, so there is bound to be a Palm Medical Centers’s office within three miles of your home. We also accept most Medicare Advantage plans. To discover all the benefits of becoming a patient at Palm Medical Centers, call your nearest provider clinic directly and ask for an appointment. You will receive a $15 gift card at your first new patient appointment! Contact us today to start building a lasting doctor-patient relationship.
