👍Read This Now If You Dread Going To The Doctor

You deserve safe, patient focused care that puts your experience and autonomy at the center. If you are a trauma survivor, have a mental health condition, are part of a marginalized group, medical appointments of any kind can be hard. Here are some ways to prepare for a visit: 

1. Do some research ahead 

1. Do some searching for providers who are trauma informed, inclusive, LGBTQ+ friendly. Often, this will be called out on a clinic's website or specific provider bios. 

2. Advocate for seeing a provider that feels safest to you - that could be a certain gender, race, etc. 

3. You can call or message the office to get a clear understanding of what to expect at your visit. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can be very helpful. 

2. Write down your questions, concerns before your visit 

1. Write down your questions, symptoms, concerns before your visit and bring the list with you. You can even send this ahead to your provider if possible. 

2. It depends on your visit and provider but also expecting that you may not be able to address everything on your list at one visit is important. If you have a few items that are most important, highlight those so you can be sure to get to those first! 

3. Bring a support person

1. It’s always a good idea to bring a support person! 

2. They can help take notes, advocate for clarification, or help you remember questions or symptoms. 

4. Share what you’re comfortable sharing 

1. You can share what you feel comfortable with, especially if it’s your first time meeting someone. If you aren’t sure if something is relevant or not, you can always ask! 

5. You have the right so say no, decline care or choose a different provider 

1. You are in charge of your care and your body. You can always say no. If no is hard, you can try this: Ask for time to consider your options or ask for a follow-up visit to discuss things in more detail. 

2. You never have to agree to a physical exam (especially one where you might need to undress) at a first visit (or ever!)

3. If you’re done with a visit, the visit is over! You have the right to take a break or end the visit at any time. 

6. Be clear on the follow-up plan 

1. It’s important to leave your visit with a plan for follow-up. 

2. This can be a written document that you can access through a patient portal or something that is printed and given to you. 

3. It may include scheduling another visit, getting labs done, picking up a medication or scheduling with a specialist. 

7. Grounding and self care before and after your visit 

1. Provider visits can feel vulnerable and triggering. Consider some practices you can try before and after your visit, like breathing exercises, journaling, being around a safe person or watching/listening to your comfort show! You may also want to consider blocking off time before and after your visit (if possible) to give yourself space. 

2. Big feelings and triggering situations can make you feel sleepy and tired. This is normal. Make space to rest after your visit if needed! 

I hope you find this helpful! Let me know if there are other things you’ve done that are helpful in preparing for a medical visit. 

Caylin 

P.S. I consider it a red flag if any provider objects to your bringing lists, questions, a support person or pushes back if you say no. It’s ok to ghost a provider who doesn’t make you feel safe. If you prefer to let someone know about a negative experience, consider asking to speak with a clinic manager or patient experience team.