• Find out the basics about the office. Read any information the doctor's office sends you ahead of time and visit the practice website. If you cannot find specific information, call the office. 
  • Where is the office located?
  • What time should you arrive?
  • If you're going to drive, where can you park? How much does parking cost?
  • Is there a wheelchair or concierge service that can help you if you need it?
  • Do you need to bring your insurance card or a medical referral?
• Assemble your records. 
  • Compile medical documents and records to take to the doctor's office. These may include:
    • Medical records from other doctors. 
    • X-rays and other imaging tests (MRI, CT, etc.) with reports
    • Lab and bloodwork test results
• Make written lists.
  • All the medications you take regularly, including any herbal supplements, vitamin supplements and over-the-counter medications; make sure to note the dosage for each medication and how often you take it (e.g., 10 mg, twice a day)
  • Your medical history, such as prior treatments for heart or thyroid problems
  • Past surgeries, even those not related to your current problem
  • All allergies (rash, hives, swelling) or unexpected reactions (nausea, drowsiness) to medications
  • Any medical problems that run in your family
  • Your concerns about your condition (pain, loss of mobility or function)
• Bring a family member or friend.
  • Consider asking a friend or family member to come with you to help ask questions and remember the information your doctor provides.
  • If you need a translator, your doctor will probably be able to provide one. Just in case, consider bringing along another adult who can translate for you; do not rely on a child to translate.
• Dress appropriately.
  • For spine and many problems involving the arms and legs, you may be asked to undress. Wear loose clothing and shoes that are easy to take off and put on.

• Arrive early.
  You may need time to complete any pre-visit required forms or tests before meeting with your orthopaedic surgeon. If your surgeon sends forms to you ahead of time, it is a good idea to fill them out before the day of your appointment.
• Be honest and complete in talking with your orthopaedic surgeon and their staff.
  Share your point of view and do not hold back information that you think may be unimportant or embarrassing, such as incontinence or memory loss.
• Stick to the point.
  It might be fun to share personal details or talk about what is going on in the news, but keep it short to get the most out of your time with the surgeon.
• Take notes and ask questions.
  Take notes on what the orthopaedic surgeon tells you and ask questions if you do not understand a medical term, the reason for the doctor's recommendations, or the instructions for taking medication.
• Ask what to expect from your treatment or surgery.
  How long will recovery take? What will your surgeon do to manage your pain? When will you likely be able to return to activities, such as work, driving, or sports? Also, ask what you can do to prevent further pain or disability while you wait for your treatment to start.
• Ask for more information to take with you.
  Ask your orthopaedic surgeon for handouts or brochures that you and your family members can review at home. Your surgeon may refer you to a website, like OrthoInfo, for more information.
• Talk to the other members of the healthcare team.
  Physician assistants, social workers, nurses, and therapists (speech, physical or occupational) can also address any questions or concerns.

• Review the materials your orthopaedic surgeon gave you.
  If you cannot remember something, or if you do not understand your notes, call the office and speak to a member of your healthcare team.
• Follow your orthopaedic surgeon's instructions, including instructions about preparing for surgery.
  
  • Take the full course of medication prescribed.
  • If your surgeon tells you to stop taking certain medications, do so.
  • Make sure you follow the recommended diet or exercise routine, as well as any physical restrictions. 
• Keep your orthopaedic surgeon informed.
  Follow up with your healthcare team about:
  • Test results
  • Bad reactions to or side effects of your prescribed medication(s)
  • Challenges with getting care
  • Any complications from or worsening of your condition

Remember, you are a critical part of your healthcare team, too!