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Doctor Visit Planning

Get organized to get the most out of each visit

When someone close to you is living with Parkinson’s, you are likely to come into contact with a number of healthcare professionals. This could include a neurologist, primary care physicians, speech therapist, nurses, occupational therapist and mental health professionals. Be prepared with a list of questions for your doctor. Discuss long term prognosis, diet, symptoms and which non-medical treatments are available.

We’ve provided you with a helpful checklist for making the most of your medical appointment.

National Parkinson Foundation: Making the Most of your Medical Appointment
PD Life: iPhone and iPad App to help keep track of medications and side effects

When To Visit
Most people with Parkinson’s are advised to see their doctor every three to six months, especially if they are taking anti-Parkinson’s medications. If a person is experiencing problems with his or her condition or its treatment, more frequent visits may be warranted.

How To Find the Right Doctor For You
The first step is finding a qualified physician. The second is considering whether the physician is the right one. You should feel comfortable in this relationship and feel that it is a good “match.”. If not, perhaps you need to find a new doctor that can work better with you and your family.
Is your doctor right for you? Consider these questions:

• Are you comfortable speaking with your physician?
• Do you feel respected by your doctor?
• Are questions answered to your satisfaction or do you come away from a visit feeling that you have not been taken seriously?
• Can you get in touch with the doctor between visits?
• Ask your physician, “how long should I expect to wait for a return phone call?”
• Does your physician have a back up physician in lieu of his/her absence?
• You may even decide to interview a neurologist before you make a definite selection. Asking questions like, "what happens if I have new symptoms, or if questions arise between visits?"

Explore this list of neurologists