Tips for booking Dr. Appointments

When you can't wait months to see a doctor, try these tips!

Double-book

If there are 2 doctors who would be acceptable to you, book times to meet with both of them. Ask to be put on their cancellation lists. Consider one of them your 2nd opinion doc. Why?

Keep a log

Waiting to meet your Dr. can be emotionally hard, but emotions won't get you in sooner. Facts matter most. Keep a record of your symptoms. Rate any pain on a 1-5 scale. Use these facts to request meeting with the Dr. – soon!

Confirm that any doctor's referral you need has been received, then complete your patient portal promptly!

Believe it or not, doctor referrals can go missing. Always double check! Most doctors have electronic patient portals that new patients must complete before booking a firm date to meet.

Be the squeaky wheel – with heart!

Call to 'check in' just in case there's been a cancellation. Sometimes a caller will snag a new opening ahead of names on the cancelation list! Be respectful, kind and quick with every call, and don't call too often. When it applies, use the facts from your log to support your request for a sooner date (i.e., "My chest pains are more frequent.") Everyone is incredibly busy – always end with a heartfelt thanks!

Go old school – FAX!

Medical offices still use FAX machines. All. Day. Long! Consider writing a brief note requesting to see the Dr. ASAP – backed up by facts from your daily log. If you are experiencing any troubling changes in your health, be sure to describe them. Keep it brief and business-like. Type, or make sure your handwriting is legible.

Really worried? Scary symptoms? Going downhill?

You will be seen by the doctor right away if you are admitted to an Emergency Room where they are on staff or have privileges. If you choose to go this route, bring all of your notes and make sure your patient portal and medication records are up to date. Want someone to go with you? I’m here to help!