Visiting A Urologist? What to Know Before You Go
If you’re getting ready to see one of our urologists for the first time, welcome! On any given day, a urologist may see as many as 30 patients. This can make for a pretty tight schedule for doctors, staff, and even patients.
Education Fuels a More Efficient Visit, and That’s Healthy
Rest assured that at your appointment, we’re focused on you and your needs. However, educating yourself before your appointment will be helpful to you and your physician. We offer the following guidelines to maximize the visit.
8 Prep Tips for New Patients
- Contact your insurance provider to ensure the visit is covered and within your network, and to budget for the co-pay.
- Write down all medications you’re taking – oral and topical. The doctor will need to know them.
- Bring test results and/or appointment notes if you were referred by your primary care provider. These provide immediate value and assistance.
- Compile a detailed list of your symptoms, including when they present themselves, their severity, and if they are recurring or persistent.
- Write a focused list of questions. Time will go by fast, so keep your questions targeted. Examples include: Are my symptoms unusual? What body sensations should I be alert to? Are there foods or activities I should avoid? What tests do you advise?
- Also be ready to answer questions. The doctor will ask if you and your family have a history of certain health issues. Also be prepared to answer questions about how frequently you urinate, especially at night. For this, you might want to keep a diary.
- Hold it in. You’ll be required to give a urine sample for screening, so arrive with a full bladder. If you have trouble urinating on demand, drink a glass of water an hour or so before your appointment.
- Be ready for hands-on tests. Depending on why you are visiting, the urologist might examine the pelvis area (including the urethra), prostate, and/or testicles.
One Big Tip for Patients Making Follow-up Visits
For patients who have been diagnosed with a condition and are making a return appointment, we suggest taking advantage of free educational materials. Doing so will prepare you to ask more informed questions and save time with the doctor, as well.
Among the free resources:
Blogs – Our team researches and writes about a wide range of conditions, treatment options, and good urinary health every month. Click to read our monthly blog. Other urology organizations, including the Urology Care Foundation, the National Association for Incontinence, and Urology Times, post regular blogs that are easy to understand.
Patient-focused newsletters and portals – Michigan Institute of Urology publishes a patient newsletter that addresses timely topics and conditions. Patients also can establish a direct link to their records and staff messaging through our patient portal.
Our website – You can learn more about your specific condition and treatment options on our Specialties page.
Support groups and associations – Depending on your health issue, there is likely a support group to help. MIU Men’s Health Foundation is a men’s health advocacy group that offers support specifically to prostate cancer patients. And The Urology Care Foundation offers a lengthy list of additional groups.
Lastly, never hesitate to reach out if you have questions. You can reach us through the patient portal, by calling one of our offices, or in person at your next visit.
To request an appointment, click our online appointment-request form. Someone on our staff will call you to set it up.
