Questions to Ask Before Your Next Appointment

Appointments can go by fast. You wait for weeks, then you're in the room for fifteen minutes, and by the time you're back in the car you remember the three things you meant to ask.

I've been there. Over the years, I've learned that a little preparation makes a big difference. Print this sheet, fill it out before your visit, and bring it with you. You deserve to leave feeling heard.

Before the Visit: The Basics

Date of appointment: ______________________

Provider's name: ______________________

Main reason for this visit: ______________________

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My Top Three Concerns

Start with what matters most, in case time runs short.

1. ---

2. ---

3. ---

My Symptoms

For each symptom, jot down a few notes.

• What it is: ______________________
• When it started: ______________________
• How often it happens: ______________________
• What makes it better or worse: ______________________
• How it affects my daily life: ______________________

What to Bring

• [ ] A list of all medications I take, including the amounts and how often
• [ ] A list of all vitamins, supplements, herbs, and anything else I take
• [ ] My insurance card and ID
• [ ] Recent test results or records from other providers
• [ ] My symptom, sleep, or cycle notes
• [ ] This prep sheet and a pen
• [ ] A trusted friend or family member, if I'd like support

My Health History Updates

• [ ] Any new diagnoses since my last visit
• [ ] Any surgeries or hospital stays
• [ ] Any changes in my family's health history
• [ ] Changes in my menstrual cycle, or perimenopause/menopause symptoms
• [ ] Changes in my sleep, mood, weight, or energy

Notes: ______________________________________________

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Questions About a Symptom or Concern

• [ ] What could be causing this?
• [ ] Are there tests that would help us understand it?
• [ ] What are my options, including lifestyle changes?
• [ ] What are the benefits and risks of each option?
• [ ] What happens if I wait and watch?
• [ ] What signs mean I should call you or seek care sooner?

Questions About Medications, Supplements, or Anything New I'm Considering

• [ ] Is this right for me, given my health history?
• [ ] Could it interact with anything else I take?
• [ ] What are the possible side effects?
• [ ] What does the current evidence say about it?
• [ ] Is it approved for this use, and does that matter for me?
• [ ] How will we know if it's working, and how will we monitor it?

Questions About Hormones and Life Stage

• [ ] Could my symptoms be related to perimenopause or menopause?
• [ ] What options are available to help me feel better?
• [ ] Which screenings should I have at my age?
• [ ] How can I support my bones, heart, and muscles going forward?

Questions About Prevention and Healthy Aging

• [ ] Am I up to date on screenings and vaccines?
• [ ] What lab work makes sense for me?
• [ ] What's one habit you'd suggest I focus on right now?

My Own Questions

1. ---

2. ---

3. ---

During the Visit

• [ ] Share my top three concerns first
• [ ] Take notes, or ask if I can record the key points
• [ ] Ask the provider to explain anything I don't understand
• [ ] Repeat back the plan in my own words

Before I Leave

• [ ] I understand the next steps
• [ ] I know when and how I'll get test results
• [ ] I know when my next appointment should be
• [ ] I know who to contact if I have questions

Next steps: ______________________________________________

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Follow-up date: ______________________

Talk With Your Provider

Your healthcare provider is your partner. Bringing this sheet helps you both use your time well. If you ever feel rushed or dismissed, it's okay to ask for more time, schedule a follow-up, or seek a second opinion. Your questions matter.

This article is for general education only and is not medical advice.