You’re on the right track to a healthier you! Establishing a relationship with a primary care provider is the first step to keeping you well – and not only when you are sick! Your relationship with a primary care provider can last a lifetime, throughout all stages of your life. Maintaining a regular checkup with your primary care provider will keep you healthy!
After making an appointment, here are a few ways to get ready to see your provider.
Create a list of questions
Whether meeting with your provider for the first time or the 100th time, it helps to be prepared. You can expect standard questions about your health history including current medical conditions, family medical history, allergies, prior surgeries, previous providers, etc. If there are certain symptoms you’d like to cover with your provider, make sure to note them as a topic to discuss. Come to your appointment armed with knowledge and confidence. Most insurance plans cover a regular checkup free of charge, so staying on top of your health comes at no extra cost to you!
Collect available health records
Ask your most current provider to transfer your health history to your MercyOne care team. When you arrive at your visit, you’ll fill out a request for release of medical information to acquire your health records. This request allows your us to see your health history without you needing to memorize all the information. The form will ask basic information like your name, date of birth and purpose for records release.
Not sure where to access your health records? We can help! Just ask and we are here for you. Your best life is our one purpose.
Things to bring to your appointment:
- Insurance card*
- Photo ID
- A list of current medications, if appropriate
- Daily monitoring device or log, if appropriate
*If you do not have insurance, MercyOne offers payment plans and financial assistance to help cover charges
Be ready to ask and answer questions!
For a full understanding of your health, your MercyOne primary care provider will ask you several questions and we encourage you to ask questions too! Examples of questions we may ask include:
- Do you have any concerns about your health?
- Do you have any symptoms? How long have you had them?
- Is there anything that worsens your symptoms?
- Is there anything that improves your symptoms?
*If you know you’ll need an interpreter, MercyOne provides interpreters free of charge. You can request an interpreter when you make your appointment.
Your primary care provider is your first point of contact along your health care journey. In addition to keeping you well throughout the course of your lifetime, they are your first step to our large network of specialists who can provide you expert care. Prioritizing your health and your family’s health brings you one step closer towards your best life.
