Prepare for Your Visit

What to Bring

• Copies of recent imaging
• Current medications
• Insurance card and information

What to Plan For

• Review parking options at your facility
• Read patient guidelines at your facility
• Arrive 15 minutes early

What to Communicate

• New symptoms or reactions to medications
• Changes to your routine
• Allergies or sensitivities

What to Bring

For multi-day stays, having the creature comforts of home can bring you peace and serenity during a stressful time. We recommend patients bring items that will make them feel relaxed in addition to medical information.

• Copies of recent imaging
• Current medications
• Comfortable clothing (robes, slippers, etc.)
• Insurance card and information
• Documentation of symptoms and/or treatments
• An advocate! A trusted loved one to help with questions and details

What to Plan For

Beyond physical items to bring with you, planning for some of the anticipated elements of your stay can help you remain calm when the time comes. A little planning goes a long way when it comes to your health!

• Research your physician ahead of time
• Review parking options at your facility
• Read through patient guidelines at your facility
• Review your facilities meal options and policies
• Be clear about your goals for care and how you’ll make medical decision
• Plan for downtime – bring a book, knitting, tablet, and/or phone charger!

Communicate with Your Care Team

Being prepared to have honest conversation with your care team about your condition, symptoms and goals is the best way to put yourself on a track toward recovery. We strive to treat you with dignity and respect, and we want you to feel comfortable speaking candidly with your team.

• Be detailed and thorough about your symptoms
• Write down your questions ahead of time, if possible
• Document a timeline of your symptoms and treatments ahead of time
• Be honest! There is no need for embarrassment; we’re committed to your health
• Ask for clarity if you don’t understand your options or treatments

Review the Logistics

While these will vary based on your facility, nothing will help you feel more prepared than understanding where you’re going and how you’ll get there. By eliminating the stress of minor unknowns, you’ll be able to focus fully on your health and recovery.

• Where to park
• Where to check in
• What forms you can fill out ahead of time
• Instructions regarding your condition, treatment or recovery
• Review your physician’s bio and photo