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How To Prepare For Your First Cardiology Appointment

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When you visit us at Queen’s Heart Institute, you’re not just a patient, you’re a new member of our ʻohana. The spirit of aloha – the coordination of the mind and the heart – inspires us in all that we do. That is why we strive to make every patient visit to our offices as welcoming and productive as possible. As you prepare for your cardiology appointment, a little preparation in advance goes a long way! We are excited to get to know you as a whole person, and work with you on a health plan designed for your specific needs – a plan that improves not only your physical health, but also your mental and emotional well-being.

For new patients, we have put together the preparation lists below that will help make sure your appointments with us run smoothly – before, during, and after your visit. 

Before cardiology appointment:

  • Come prepared with your top questions for the doctor about your condition and ongoing health. 
  • Depending on the evolution of COVID-19 protocols, consider bringing a family member or someone you trust with you to the appointment – to help make sure all questions are asked and answered. 
  • Compile a list of your past health history, including surgeries, major/ongoing illnesses and issues, and major tests. 
  • Bring a list of your current medications, including over-the-counter medications and supplements, and any medical devices you use. Make sure you also include a list of any allergies, including allergies to medications. 
  • Bring a list of your health care providers, including all contact information. 
  • Bring any additional data that might be useful for your doctor to review – such as food logs, blood pressure and glucose readings, changes in weight, etc. 
  • Bring a family health history that includes relatives that may have had heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or aneurysm.

Day of appointment:

  • Bring your medical lists and information above. 
  • Depending on COVID-19 protocols, coordinate arrival with your family member or trusted companion, if they are accompanying you.  
  • It’s always a great idea to bring a notebook and a pen to write down notes from your doctor visit and to make sure you capture action items.

After your appointment:

  • Work with our scheduling team to add your next and/or follow up appointments with your doctor on the calendar. Understand the frequency of how often you will be seeing the doctor. 
  • Speak with the front office team to make sure you have the best contact information for your doctor – in case you have any symptoms or side effects after your visit.

We look forward to welcoming you to our offices, whether virtually or in person, and serving you for many years to come as your lifetime partner in health!

Sources:

https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/doctor-its-been-too-long/preparing-for-your-appointment

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-should-i-ask-my-doctor-during-checkup

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