The ten-minute problem
A standard GP appointment is ten minutes. A hospital outpatient slot is often fifteen. When your loved one has multiple conditions, takes many medications, and has a list of concerns — that's not much time.
Preparation is the single most effective thing you can do to make medical appointments productive.
Before the appointment
- Write a brief summary. Three to five key points, prioritised by urgency. Lead with the most important concern.
- Bring the medication list. Always. Doctors shouldn't have to guess what someone is taking.
- Note changes since the last visit. New symptoms, worsening of existing symptoms, falls, hospital visits, side effects.
- Prepare your questions in advance. Write them down — you'll forget them otherwise.
- Book a double appointment if you know there's a lot to discuss.
During the appointment
- Be specific. "Mum's mobility has declined — she's fallen three times this month" is more useful than "she seems worse."
- Take notes or ask if you can record the conversation.
- Ask "What should I watch for?" This gives you clear red flags to act on at home.
- If you don't understand, say so. Medical jargon is normal for doctors but confusing for everyone else. It's okay to ask them to explain differently.
- Clarify next steps. Before leaving, confirm: What's been decided? What tests or referrals? When's the follow-up?
When the doctor doesn't seem to listen
It happens. If you feel your concerns are being dismissed:
- Use specific language: "I'm concerned about X because I've observed Y over the past Z weeks."
- Ask directly: "Can you explain why you don't think this needs investigation?"
- Request it in the notes: "Could you record in the notes that I raised this concern and it wasn't investigated?" — this often prompts action.
- If you're still unhappy, request a second opinion or see a different GP at the practice.
After the appointment
- Update the care circle immediately — what was discussed, what changed, what's next
- Book follow-up appointments before you leave the surgery
- Collect any new prescriptions the same day
- Implement medication or care changes straight away
Good communication with medical professionals isn't about being demanding — it's about being prepared, specific, and persistent.