Wish your doctor actually listened? Heres how to fix that...


Hi beautiful.

I had an experience this week that I just had to share with you.

I took my daughter (she's 21) to the doctor's appointment I'd spent nearly 3 weeks trying to book.

On the drive there, I asked her if she was prepared.

Did she have a plan? A list of symptoms? Anything written down?

Her response? "No." 🤦

Despite me asking her for the past week to prepare (and being the typical 21-year-old who doesn't want to listen to her mum), she was just rocking up half-asleep with absolutely no plan of action. 😀

It really hit me then - getting a doctor's appointment these days is like finding gold dust.

And when you finally get those precious 6-7 minutes of their time, you can't afford to waste a single second.

How to Maximize Your Doctor's Appointment

1. Make detailed notes beforehand
Either on your phone or printed out - have your symptoms written down with details about when they occur, how severe they are, and how long you've been experiencing them. The doctor's office can be surprisingly intimidating, and it's amazing how quickly important details can slip from your mind when you're under pressure.

2. Prepare specific questions
Write down every question you want to ask - even ones that seem obvious. There's nothing worse than walking out of the appointment and suddenly remembering that crucial question you forgot to ask.

3. Know your desired outcome
Just like in business when you go into a meeting with a clear objective, approach your doctor's appointment the same way. Do you want a referral to an endocrinologist? Specific lab tests for your thyroid? A medication adjustment? Having a clear goal keeps the appointment focused and productive.

4. Remember: You're in charge!
This is YOUR body. You don't have to blindly follow instructions without understanding them. The best healthcare happens when you and your doctor approach issues as a team. You're partners in your health journey, not just a passive recipient of care.

5. Do your research
Take some time to understand what treatments might be suggested for your symptoms. The NHS website (or other reputable health resources) can give you an idea of standard protocols. This knowledge helps you have more meaningful discussions with your doctor.

Your Pre-Appointment Action Plan:

  1. Set aside 15 minutes to document your symptoms, including when they started, patterns you've noticed, and what makes them better or worse
  2. Write down 3-5 specific questions you need answered
  3. Decide what a successful outcome looks like for this appointment
  4. Research potential treatments or next steps for your specific concerns
  5. Take 2 minutes in your car before the appointment to center yourself, breathe deeply, and remember that you are your own best advocate

When you have a condition like hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's, these appointments are truly precious opportunities to improve your health.

I've learned that the difference between a helpful appointment and a frustrating one often comes down to how prepared you are walking in the door.

Remember, nobody cares about your health as much as you do.

Your doctor may be the expert on medicine, but you are the expert on your own body.

Wishing you empowered healthcare!

With love and fire

P.S. Has preparation made a difference in your doctor's appointments? Reply and let me know your best tips - I'd love to share them in a future email!

ORDER YOUR HOME TEST HERE

PLEASE NOTE - I am NOT a Doctor or Medical Professional of any kind.
The content on this website is strictly for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of medical advice or treatment from a personal physician.
All recipients of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions


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