Before your appointment: Write down your main concern in one sentence. If you have more than one issue, list them in order of importance. GPs often ask "anything else?" but time may only stretch to the top two or three.
Note when symptoms started, how often they occur and what makes them better or worse. Bring a current list of medications and supplements, including doses. If you're tracking something like blood pressure, sleep, pain levels, bring the numbers, not just your memory of them.
If you’re not sure where to start, AI tools can help you organise your symptoms, prioritise your concerns and come up with questions to ask. They can also help explain unfamiliar medical terms in plain English. Think of AI as a tool to help you prepare, rather than diagnose or recommend treatment. Your GP is still the best person to assess your health and advise on next steps. Avoid sharing personal or identifying health information when using AI.
During the consult: Lead with your main concern first, not last. Doctors often work through the story chronologically, so starting with what worries you most ensures it gets proper attention.
Be specific. "My knee hurts when I climb stairs" is more useful than "my knee's been bad." Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you don't understand something, ask your GP to explain it in a different way.
Be honest, too. Your GP is there to help, not judge. Being open about things like alcohol, smoking, sexual health, mental wellbeing or lifestyle helps them give you the right advice and treatment.
If you've done any research, mention it briefly rather than reading out a list of articles. Your GP needs the headline, not the source material.
Making it count: Three questions are worth asking every time. What do you think is causing this? What happens next? Are there any warning signs I should look out for?
If cost or access to further tests or specialists is a concern, say so. It may change what your GP recommends first. And if you've got heaps to get through, say so when you book. A 30-minute appointment beats rushing a 15-minute one.
After you leave: If you don't get access to your notes, jot down what was said while it's fresh. If you were given a diagnosis or medication name, write it down or ask your GP to note it in your after-visit summary.
A focused fifteen minutes, well used, can achieve as much as a rushed thirty.
Dr Kim Hurst, Clinical Lead and GP.