5 Tips for a Successful Doctor's Appointment

Going for an office visit can be intimidating when you aren’t sure what to expect. Florida Health Care Plans wants to help put your mind at ease with these helpful tips to get you ready for your appointment so you can walk out of your physician’s office confident and ready to take control of your health.  

1. Contact FHCP Member Services in advance: Your insurance company decides which health care providers and facilities are in-network. You can save money on medical costs by seeing a doctor who is in-network with your plan. Make sure your plan is currently active and double-check that your physician is in-network and if you will have an office visit copayment. Your copayment may depend on the type of doctor or specialist you are seeing, the plan you have, and whether you’ve met your deductible. If you’re looking to change your insurance plan, you can enroll in a new plan in the Fall during open enrollment period. You may be eligible to change your insurance coverage if you have a certain qualifying life event, such as getting married, having a baby, or losing other health coverage. 

2. Take relevant information with you to your appointment: If you are seeing a primary care physician for the first time, your doctor will want to know your medical history. With your medical records on hand, your new doctor can keep track of ongoing treatments and they will have a baseline to see how your medical status changes over time. Make sure to keep your original copy and have the office scan your records. Also, make sure you bring your insurance cards, ID card, and the names and phone numbers of the other healthcare providers you see. If you currently do not have a provider, you can find one here in our Provider Directory. 

3. Bring a list of your medications: It’s important for your new doctor to know which medications you take, the dosage, and what the drugs are intended to treat. Include any over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or supplements on the list. Sometimes, a doctor will change your prescription or dose, so always be prepared with a list of your medications and the dosages.  

4. Make sure to inform your doctor of any changes: You should keep your doctor up-to-date of anything health-related that has happened to you in-between visits, such as being treated in an emergency room or by another specialist. You should also inform your doctor of any changes in your weight, sleep, or energy level.  

5. Don’t leave confused: Voice any of your concerns or questions before you leave the doctor’s office. Make sure to ask the front desk personnel to help you if your doctor gave you referrals, new prescriptions, or lab orders.  

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About Florida Health Care Plans 

Florida Health Care Plans serves our community with an extensive list of local health care providers in the area, including Flagler, Volusia, Seminole, Brevard, and St. Johns Counties. Our 11 all-in-one facilities are designed with convenience and comfort in mind, whether you’re visiting your family doctor, getting an X-ray, or utilizing our cost-effective, members only pharmacies.  

We’ve got you covered at our FHCP Care Centers!  

Click here to find Florida Health Care Plans doctor or facility near you.