The process of making and getting to a doctor’s appointment can be stressful.
Making the appointment
- When you call for an appointment, make sure the office accepts your insurance. If you need an appointment soon, make sure you explain why. Ask about cancellations and if you can be called when an appointment is available.
- Consider and ask if a telehealth visit or phone call is appropriate. Is it a follow-up visit, is it about adjusting or renewing medications? Often, telehealth appointments can be made sooner than regular, in-person visits.
- If you need special accommodations, such as an interpreter (including ASL) let the office know in advance.
- Depending on the type of appointment needed, if you have mobility or transportation issues, it may be easier to do a telehealth visit.
Before the visit
- Prioritize your concerns, if any, and make a list so you don’t forget anything.
- Do you need any immunizations? Ask about risks if you are worried.
- If you are having symptoms, write down details before the visit, including what they are like, how long the last and how long you’ve been having them.
- If you have an online portal set up, you can check in ahead of time and update any changes needed. If you can, confirm your appointment through your portal, it will save time at the office. Make sure you have your insurance card and ID with you, even if you checked in online.
At the office
- Keep your doctor up to date with changes in your health, habits, family and activities. Be honest! Share any new medical information. If the doctor is new, take a list of family medical history with you. Include all your medications, even the ones that are over the counter, such as Advil or Rolaids. If you don’t have access to your records yet, ask your doctor’s office how to set one up. If you are a new patient, you may have to wait until after the first visit.
- If your doctor recommends some tests, don’t be afraid to ask questions, or if there are alternatives.
- Take notes to refer to once you leave.
- If you are nervous, consider bringing a family member or friend to the doctor’s office for support. Visits can often feel rushed, so it’s important to have someone to help you ask the questions and listen to the doctor’s advice.
- Take a book, magazine or game on your phone with you to pass the time, in case you have to wait.
If you don’t have insurance
To schedule a doctor’s appointment if you don’t have health insurance, first explore options like Community Health Centers (CHCs) or walk-in clinics, which may offer sliding scale fees or discounts. You should also inform the provider that you are uninsured to potentially get a good faith estimate of costs. Consider asking about payment plans or negotiating bills. Telemedicine is another option, potentially offering lower fees and flexible scheduling. Walk-in clinics provide immediate care for common illnesses and injuries and may have lower costs than urgent care or emergency rooms.
Telemedicine (Telehealth):Virtual consultations with healthcare providers can be convenient and sometimes less expensive than in-person visits.
If the final bill is significantly higher than the good faith estimate, you may be able to dispute it. Don’t be afraid to negotiate your bill if you find it too expensive. Explore Payment Options: Some providers will offer payment plans to help you manage your costs.
Shop Around: Costs for similar services can vary significantly between providers, so it’s worth comparing prices.
Need a prescription and don’t have insurance?
Many resources offer discount cards or coupons that can be used at various pharmacies to lower the cost of your medications. These programs are not insurance-based and don’t require you to have insurance coverage.
1. Explore Online Resources:
- BuzzRx: Offers a free discount card with savings of up to 80% on prescription medications at over 60,000 pharmacies.
- SingleCare: Provides a free discount card that can be used at major pharmacies to save up to 80% on prescriptions.
- GoodRx: Offers a free digital coupon or discount card that can be used to find lower prices on medications.
- ScriptSave WellRx: Provides a free prescription discount card that can be used to save on medications.
2. Check for Local Programs:
- Some states may offer discount programs based on income.
- Local Programs: Many municipalities and counties may offer free or low-cost prescription discount programs. Contact your local government for information.
3. Check with Pharmacies and Stores:
- Walgreens: Offers an Rx Savings Finder to help you find coupons and discounts.
- Walmart: Offers a $4 generic prescription program.
- Amazon Pharmacy: Offers prescription savings with or without a Prime membership.
