Help Us Help You: The Art of the Efficient Doctor Visit

So you’ve made it to your doctor’s office. Gold star! You're here, on time, with your symptoms and probably a story or two about your neighbor’s cousin’s friend who had the same thing and swears by pickle juice and essential oils.

Let’s pause right there.

We love that you trust us with your health. Really. But if you want to get the most out of your visit (and your payment), here’s a little insider secret: brevity is beautiful.

Why Short and Sweet is the Doctor’s Treat

Think of your doctor like a detective. We're trying to solve the mystery of what’s going on with you. We need clues—not a full-season Netflix recap. When you describe your symptoms clearly and concisely, it gives us the info we need to make good decisions, fast.

Compare:
❌ “Well, last Tuesday I had this weird pain, but it kind of reminded me of the time I was in Vegas in ‘98 when I got food poisoning, which by the way, my aunt just had last week after eating shrimp, and she said—”

versus:

✅ “I’ve had sharp pain in my lower right abdomen for 3 days. It gets worse when I move.”
See the difference? One gets you a diagnosis. The other gets you a longer visit... and possibly a bigger bill.

Save Your Friend’s Advice for Brunch

We know you care about what Cheryl from yoga said about her sciatica. And we’re sure her essential oil regimen is truly something. But unless Cheryl has gone to med school and is standing next to us in a white coat, we probably don't need to hear her opinion during your exam.

Pro Tips for a Rockstar Visit:

• Write down your symptoms beforehand—what, where, when, how bad.
• Stick to what you are feeling (not what your second cousin in Florida went through).
• Ask clear questions—we’re all for empowering you with info!
• Save the small talk for after the stethoscope. Dr. A loves a good story but only after we’ve gotten your symptoms and a plan figured out.

We’re here to listen—truly. But a focused visit helps us give you better care, faster. And let’s be honest: it keeps your wallet a little happier, too.

Namasté,
Dr. A