Many times people forget what they wanted to ask their doctor. Or they forget to bring important information with them. If you are prepared for your visit you will get the most out of your time with your doctor.

Allow extra time for your first visit to a new doctor. That’s because your doctor will ask you about your “medical history” and “family health history” to get a clear picture of you and your health. Before your well-woman visit, spend some time learning your family’s health history. That way you’ll be ready to answer your doctor’s questions . Use our My Family Health Story chart to keep track of what you learn. Ask family members if any of your grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, brothers or sisters have had any of these conditions: 

• Diabetes
• Asthma
• Heart disease
• Stroke

• Colon cancer
• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer

Before you go to your primary care provider’s office, ask if you will be having any medical tests that require you to not eat for several hours before your visit. Remember to bring with you a list of any medicines you are taking.