Preparing for your dermatology appointment can make all the difference in getting the care you need. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit.
First and foremost, arrive on time. Most offices recommend showing up about 15 minutes early to handle paperwork, which can be extensive due to healthcare regulations. Many don’t realize that due to various bureaucratic impositions, doctors must collect and include extensive, often irrelevant information in your visit note. Filling this out in advance or arriving early streamlines your appointment, allowing for a prompt start.
Be ready to discuss your health history, including medications and your skincare routine. If you've been managing a skin condition, bring the actual products you’ve used or photos of the packaging on your phone clearly showing the name of medication and concentration. This way, your dermatologist can assess their effectiveness and avoid recommending treatments you've already tried, as well as advise regarding the sensibility of using your current medications.
If you already have a diagnosis, that’s fine! However, be open to your dermatologist’s evaluation, as they might suggest new tests or alternative diagnoses. Scrambling to find an elusive spot that concerned you only to end up not being able to locate it in the exam room can be stressful. Circle any concerning blemishes with a marker before your visit to ensure they're easy to locate during your appointment. Scrambling to find an elusive spot that concerned you only to end up not being able to locate it in the exam room can be stressful.
Prepare a list of up to five questions you want to ask. This helps keep the conversation organized and ensures you address all your concerns without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re unsure about your diagnosis, don’t hesitate to ask your dermatologist how they arrived at their conclusion. Most will gladly explain their reasoning, which can provide clarity on your treatment plan.
Finally, make sure to understand the treatment process: how long improvements will take, potential side effects, what steps to take if those side effects occur, and schedule a follow up visit when appropriate to reevaluate your condition and discuss future steps.
By following these tips, you’ll enhance your dermatology visit, leading to better outcomes for your skin.
If you found this helpful, subscribe to Dr. Bibi's Newsletter for cutting edge skincare and share this article. For further insights into skincare simplification, check out my book "Sick Skin - Skin Care Made Simple" on Amazon, now available in audio.
Thanks for reading and God bless.
Yuval Bibi, MD/PhD - Board Certified Dermatologist
Share and get 15% off!
Simply share this product on one of the following social networks and you will unlock 15% off!