Doctor Visit Checklist (What to Bring + What to Ask)
A good appointment goes faster than you expect. This checklist helps you walk in organized, communicate clearly, and leave with next steps you understand.
Quick checklist
- Your top 3 concerns (the main reason you’re there)
- Symptoms + timeline (when it started, how it’s changed)
- Medication & supplement list (names + doses if you know them)
- Allergies and past reactions
- Relevant history (conditions, surgeries, family history if relevant)
- Prior records (referrals, labs, imaging, discharge papers)
- Questions to ask (diagnosis, tests, options, risks, follow-up)
- Notes (anything you don’t want to forget)
What to say first
Start with a clean opener so the doctor understands your goal quickly:
“I’m here because [main concern]. The most important things I want to cover today are [concern #1], [concern #2], and [concern #3].”
Questions that get clarity
- What are the most likely causes?
- What would you rule out first and why?
- What tests are needed, and what will they tell us?
- What are the treatment options and trade-offs?
- What should I watch for, and when should I follow up?
Want a printable version for your exact visit?
MyDoctorVisit generates a personalized packet from your answers (and optional documents) so you can print it or keep it on your phone.
Already have lab results or a referral letter you want explained in plain English? Try ExplainMyDoctor.com.
Informational and organizational support only — not medical advice.