NHS What to ask your doctor or other healthcare professional recommends making notes before an appointment. This guide follows its checklist for before, during and after a GP appointment, whether it is by phone, video or in person.
Short answer
Before you go, write down your two or three most important questions, list every medicine and supplement you take, and note when your symptoms started and what makes them better or worse. During the appointment, ask for anything unclear to be explained. Afterwards, write down what you discussed and what happens next. This is the NHS's own advice on getting the most from time with a health professional.
Before your appointment
Write down your 2 or 3 most important questions, most important first.
List or have to hand all your medicines and pills, including vitamins and supplements.
Write down your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
Ask for communication support if you need it, such as an interpreter.
Ask a friend or family member to join you if you would like support.
Have recent test results to hand if you have them.
Source: NHS, "What to ask your doctor or other healthcare professional".
During your appointment
Start with your main concern, not the smaller ones.
Do not be afraid to ask questions. If something is unclear, ask for it to be said again.
If you do not understand a word, ask for it to be written down and explained.
Take notes, or ask someone to take notes for you.
Before you finish, check that you have covered everything on your list.
Check back what you understood: "Can I just check I understood what you said?"
Ask what should happen next, and when.
After your appointment
Write down what you discussed and what happens next. Keep your notes.
Book any tests you can and put the dates in your diary.
If you do not get results when you expect them, ask for them and ask what they mean.
Know who to contact if you have more questions or problems.
Phone and video appointments: small extras
Choose somewhere you can speak privately. Have the NHS-recommended notes and medicine list to hand. Ask whether your concern needs an examination rather than assuming phone or video is suitable.
Red flags: do not wait for a booked slot
NHS When to call 999 says 999 is for life-threatening emergencies such as strokes and heart attacks.
NHS advises using NHS 111 if you are unsure whether to call 999. NHS 111 can check your symptoms and tell you what to do.
Book with The Online GP
Our rate card: a 15 minute phone consultation is £59, a video consultation is £150, and an in-person consultation is £220. Mention your main concern when booking and ask which appointment type is suitable.
Call 020 3951 3429 to book.
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This article is general information and not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your health, speak to a doctor.
Written by The Wellness Team and medically reviewed by The Wellness Clinical Team.
Sources
NHS, What to ask your doctor or other healthcare professional. https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/what-to-ask-your-doctor/
NHS, When to use NHS 111 online or call 111. https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/
NHS, When to call 999. https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-call-999/