“Getting the most from your visit to the doctor”

Americans are living longer. This is a fact. According to the 2009 United States Census, 13 percent of Americans are older than 65 years of age. Of course, as we age, we get more aches and pains, and find that we need to go to the doctor more frequently than before. The specialty of geriatrics focuses on treating older people.

Finding a specialist

If you want to find a geriatrician in your area, call the referral line at a hospital where you would want to be treated. Many geriatricians have private offices and are affiliated with hospitals. Since they are usually primary care physicians, geriatricians provide that first-line treatment for all that ails you. They also care for such health issues as arthritis, diabetes and hypertension.

Be prepared for your visit

It is a good idea, when you are seeing the doctor to bring either a list of all the prescription and over-the-counter medicines you take (including the dosage) or simply bring the actual containers in a bag. Then prioritize all of your issues - aches and pains - you want to discuss during the visit. Write them down. This way, if the doctor cannot address everything on your list due to limited time, at least you will have covered the most important ones.  If there are many more issues, ask for a second appointment. If you are a regular patient, when you are making a routine appointment, mention to the office that you need extra time during your visit. They may be able to accommodate you.

Bring an advocate

Another good idea is to bring someone with you into the exam room when you see the doctor. This way you can be sure all of the advice and directions are captured and can be implemented. In every case, the doctor should write down all of the instructions that you should be following.

I will be writing periodically about health and nutrition topics of interest to seniors. 

Let me know what you would like to discuss.

ABOUT DR. SHANK

Michael Shank, D.O., received his degree in osteopathic medicine and completed a residency at Suburban General Hospital. Board certified in Family Medicine and Geriatrics, he serves as the Medical Director of the Skilled Nursing Facility at Riddle Hospital. He has been on the Riddle Hospital staff, where he also serves as chair of Family Medicine, since 1987.