Dermatology Appointment Check-list: Don't go to your next appointment without this

See our Printable Dermatology Appointment Check-list below

I swear every time I go to the Dermatologist (or any doctor for that matter), I walk out remembering about 6% of what they said.

By the time I've walked to the car I find myself wondering if it would be too inappropriate to walk back in and beg for a quick re-cap?  I'm sorry, I didn't catch that...meaning all of it?

Information Overload

It only took me four decades to realize that I need to take the time to gather and write down the information I need before I go (i.e. what medications and skin care products I'm currently using, what my primary questions and concerns are, what any follow-up questions might be, and for the love of Pete, the first day of my last period so I don't have to spend 10 minutes trying to remember). 

Be Your Own Skincare Advocate

We hear all the time about how important it is for each of us to be our own healthcare advocate and that applies to our skin as well. No one knows our bodies or skin better than we do and the doctor can't know our concerns unless we tell them.

I showed up at a dermatology appointment a few years ago and pulled out a list of questions I'd scratched out on a notepad. I was somewhat apprehensive to show her how many things I had written down, but my fears were quickly squashed when she confidently responded, "Don't worry, I'm not afraid of a list."

The more prepared we are ahead of time, the more ready we'll be to listen and most importantly retain the information we're given!  By bringing this essential Dermatology Appointment Check-list with you, it will take the thinking out of it, making room in your brain for what the doctor says so it doesn't spill out onto the ground before you reach your car.  And, like my favorite Dermatologist said, "I'm not afraid of a list", and you shouldn't be either.

How to be Prepared for your next Dermatology Appointment

GATHER INFORMATION

Try to gather information at least a week in advance of your appointment so you're not stressing at the last minute. A review of this information may also help you identify your top 3 concerns.

Information gathering may include: 
1) Verifying that your doctor is covered by your insurance
2) Getting directions to the clinic
3) Date of your last period (for us girls)
4) Current medications
5) Skin care products you're currently using (I like to bring mine in a bag)
6) Changes in health or major procedures since your last visit
7) Timeline of any skin-related episodes or concerns

IDENTIFY PRIMARY CONCERNS

In my experience, most doctors want you to narrow down the reason for your visit into your top 3 so there is adequate time to discuss your concerns. Asking yourself what circumstances lead up to you making the appointment in the first place, may help you identify some of your top 3. Include additional concerns as time & circumstances allow.

Top 3 Primary Concerns
P1
P2
P3
Extra

CLARIFY PRESCRIPTIONS

During your visit, write down any new prescriptions you receive and instructions on administering them. Get clarification on existing medications as needed and write it all down.

Prescriptions & Instructions
Rx1 & Instructions
Rx2 & Instructions
Fx3 & Instructions

GET SPECIFIC ON INSTRUCTIONS

Now's the time to ask clarifying questions about anything you're unsure of before your visit ends. It can be helpful to take time even before your visit to write some of your questions down and jot down new ones during your appointment. Get as detailed as necessary.

Clarification questions for the doctor might include things like:

• Can you recommend any OTC (over-the-counter) products for my skin type/condition?
• Can I take the medication on an empty stomach?
• If a topical medication, how long do I have to let it set before adding another product on top?
• Can I layer products?
• Do I have to take it / apply it at the same time every day?
• How long will the medication take to be effective?
• Are there any precautions for going in the sun?
• Can I use certain products while my skin heals (lotion, make-up, etc)?
• Recommendation for additional appointments?

DERMATOLOGY APPOINTMENT CHECK-LIST - PRINTABLE 

We know we're not the only ones who want to make the most out of our trips to the Dermatologist, so we took the time to put together all the pertinent information you should need for your next dermatology appointment. We hope this is helpful for you to get the most out of your next office visit! Pass it along & let us know!


Click HERE to Download your PRINTABLE Dermatology Appointment Check-List

---

This information was brought to you by the makers of Fairface™ Washcloths, the best washcloths for sensitive skin and gentle cleansing. Visit us at FairfaceWashcloths.com & FairfaceWashcloths.etsy.com