When was the last time you accompanied your loved one to a doctor’s appointment? September 19 is Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day, meant to raise health awareness and invite more people to participate in their loved one’s wellness. This day encourages people to stop leaving healthcare up to solely the patient and doctor, but also to be included and show support.
Observe Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day
Many patients benefit from having a doctor appointment companion, or a loved one who accompanies them to their medical appointments. It often helps to have another person there with them, offering their support and learning about their condition alongside them. Appointment companions are especially helpful for older patients who may not be able to remember all the details of an appointment by themselves.
Sometimes, when patients are older—or even a bit anxious—they can miss important information from their doctor, like instructions about taking medication. When you take a loved one to the doctor, your support can help the patient remain calm and comfortable throughout the appointment.
For patients: How to find a doctor appointment companion
So, how do you choose the person who’ll accompany you to the doctor? It’s entirely up to you. Often, patients bring a close family member, like their spouse, adult son or daughter, or their sibling. But, you can also invite a close friend or caregiver whom you trust.
When choosing your doctor appointment companion, ask these questions:
- Is this person caring and kind towards you?
- Is this person mature and respectful towards others?
- Is this person knowledgeable of your condition and medical history?
- Is this person good at taking notes?
- Does this person have a good memory?
- Does this person exude positivity and optimism?
- Last, is this person willing to help you?
When you ask for your loved one’s help, make sure he or she is someone you trust and someone who already knows about your condition. That way, they’ll be prepared to hear what your doctor and cancer care team have to say.
For companions: How to encourage someone with cancer
Can you take a friend to the doctors? Of course you can! But, it is a big responsibility to undertake. When you take a loved one to the doctor, be ready to support them in any way they need. This role is more than just medical appointment transportation—it’s being their support system in a sometimes stressful environment.
Doctor visits offer patients a lot of information. Your job is to pay close attention and pick up any information your loved one may have missed or forgotten. Practice active listening and take notes to remember the important details. For instance, write down future office visits, medical advice, and instructions on how to properly use any prescribed medication.
Also, a doctor appointment companion can help their loved one recount their medical history to their doctor. Family members do an especially good job at this. They can help patients recall family medical history, as well as previous procedures, current medication, and any allergies.
Finally, a companion can serve as an advocate for the patient. They can help clear up any questions the patient may be too nervous to ask. They should also ask follow up questions after the doctor is done talking, to make sure everyone understands what the doctor discussed.
Bring Your Supporting Loved One to CCCN
At Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, your Nevada cancer specialists encourage support from patient’s loved ones. If you’d like to accompany your close friend or family member to their next visit, call us at (702) 952-3350 to schedule an appointment.