Mental Health Series - TIPS FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR PSYCHIATRIST

The following recommendations can make the experience with your psychiatrist more helpful and satisfying:

1.- Remember to verify with your insurance that your provider is in network or if you need a referral from your PCP, before you schedule your appointment.

2.- The day of your first appointment make sure you have directions and try to get there 15 to 20 minutes early to fill out new patient paperwork.

3.- Be always on time for your appointments. Your therapy time is very important, and every minute counts.

4.- Remember to take with your photo ID and health insurance card with you the day of your appointment.

5.- Write a list including all the prescriptions or over the counter medications, herbs, vitamins or  supplements that you are currently taking and any medication allergies.

6.- Make sure your records from previous providers are sent before your appointment, that way your Psychiatrist can review them beforehand and have a better idea of your history.

7.- If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment call 24-48 hours in advance. Same as your time, your provider time is also important.

8.- Write down all your symptoms and for how long you have had them. And all the questions you want to ask your doctor as well.

9.- If you don’t understand something, ASK. Your provider will clarify the information for you.

10.- Remember to make your follow up appointments at the end of your visit and get an appointment card with the date and time, as well as the recommendations provided during the current visit all  written so you won’t forget.

11.- Don't worry. Your provider is there for you. Use your time wisely by asking important questions and paying attention. If you don't understand ask your provider to repeat or explain in a way that helps you understand. It might be helpful to bring along a notebook and pen to write down everything said so that you don't have to try and recall from memory.

Do you have tips that can help others? Please list them in the comments below. Thanks!