Who’s got a question? You should! When it comes to urgent care, patients often expect to be the ones answering questions, but it’s important for patients to ask questions, too. This helps your doctor develop an accurate diagnosis and helps you take an active role in your health.

At AFC Urgent Care, we know it’s easy to clam up or feel embarrassed in front of a doctor, but caring about your health is important. When you ask questions, you show us that you have a vested interest in your health and what we can do to help you. There’s nothing embarrassing about that!

Here are some great questions to ask your urgent care doctor.

1. What is my BMI, and is mine in a healthy range?
   BMI stands for body mass index and calculates what weight is healthy for your height. If your BMI is too high, your risk for heart disease and diabetes increases; if it’s too low, you’re at risk for osteoporosis, respiratory diseases and compromised immune function.
2. Am I up to date on my vaccinations, and are there any boosters I need?
   According to ABC News, most adults need at least one vaccination or booster. Even if you were vaccinated as a child for some diseases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that immunity can fade over time. That’s important because as you age, you become more susceptible to infections that can put your health at risk. If you’re traveling, there are a number of vaccines and boosters you may need, depending on what areas of the world you’re visiting.
3. What screenings would you recommend for my age and gender?
   Age, sex and family risk factors determine what screenings you need, but your doctor can give you recommendations based on your medical history. Women may need breast or cervical cancer screenings and men may need a prostate screening. Other routine screenings may include cholesterol, blood pressure and diabetes.
4. Are there any lifestyle changes you would recommend for me?
   There’s always room for improvement, so making healthy changes is a good place to start. Improving your diet, quitting smoking and exercising more are all changes you can make to improve your health, and your doctor can offer advice and guidance on how to start making those positive changes.

At any doctor’s visit or checkup, spending time off the exam table and talking with the doctor is a vital part of your appointment. Make sure you use that time wisely and ask questions to keep you on the right track to better health.

What questions do you ask your doctor? Share your ideas with us!