Records can help a provider move faster—if they’re organized. This guide shows you what to bring and how to label it.
Quick checklist (2 minutes)
- Write your top 1–3 priorities in order
- Summarize symptoms and timeline (only what you know)
- Bring a medication/supplement list and allergies
- Bring relevant documents (referrals, summaries, test names/dates)
What records help most
- Referral letters
- Visit summaries/discharge notes
- Test names and dates
- Medication lists
How to organize in a simple way
- Put items in date order
- Write a 1-line label for each item
- Highlight only what you want the clinician to notice (no interpretation)
If you want documents explained
- Use ExplainMyDoctor.com for a plain-English summary of what a document says
- Bring that summary to your visit as notes (informational only)
Printable notes section
Use these prompts to take quick notes during the appointment:
- Main takeaways: ________________________________
- Next steps: ________________________________________
- Follow-up timing: ___________________________________
- Questions I still have: _____________________________
Want this customized to you?
MyDoctorVisit.com can turn your answers (and optional documents) into a clean visit agenda, smart questions, and a printable packet. Create your packet here.
If you want a plain-English explanation of what a medical document says (informational only), visit ExplainMyDoctor.com.