Some tips on what to expect and some "do's" and "don'ts"
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AT THE PHYSICIAN’S OFFICE?
Be prepared to give a brief history of your illnesses/injuries, as well as a list of symptoms and limitations. Symptoms are physical and medical problems that you experience, such as pain, numbness, fatigue, depression, memory/concentration/attention problems, and so forth. Limitations are those things you cannot do; for example, walk more than a block or two, sit comfortably for more than about a half hour, lift more than about 5 to 10 pounds, and so forth. Provide any symptoms and limitations which would make it difficult for you to work at a job.
If you are seeing a physician for your physical problems, be prepared for a routine physical examination with “range of motion” testing. If your condition involves problems in any of your joints (including your back), the physician may order an x-ray. If you have any breathing problems, he/she may perform pulmonary function studies.
If you are seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist for a “mental” evaluation/examination, be prepared for a “mental status” exam, in which you will be asked to identify the current president, remember an address, do some math calculations, etc. The physician is testing your memory and concentration – he/she is not trying to make you feel foolish. If you cannot remember things, don’t worry, as it is likely related to your condition. In some instances, various written tests may be given to you. You should do your best to complete them, no matter how you feel.
You will be asked about any number of complaints, such as: depression, anxiety, nervousness, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, difficulty maintaining attention, difficulty retaining information, irritability, difficulty being with people, panic attacks, and so forth. It is important that you are completely honest about any problems such as these that you may be experiencing. Also, be sure to tell the physician that you have had these problems (to whatever extent) since the time you first stopped working (if not before).
You can expect to spend anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour with the physician. Be sure to note the time spent with the physician on the attached questionnaire.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE EXAM?
1. Bring a list of any medications you have taken since you stopped working.
2. If you actually use any assistive devices, such as a cane or brace, bring them and use/wear them if would ordinarily do so. This is not a good time to use a cane for the first time, as the examiner will likely note the discrepancy.
3. If you already have them in your possession, bring any x-rays, MRI’s or CT scan films. Ask the provider if he/she wishes to view them. If you don’t have them, it is not necessary for you to get them for the examination. If the provider declines to review them, that’s okay, simply make a note of what you brought and had available.
WHAT SHOULD I DO AT THE EXAM?
Be aware of your actions from the time you arrive at the building until the time you leave the building. In some cases, the physician will watch you walk into and/or out of the building and will note in the record whether you were limping, walking slowly or not. If you normally use a cane/crutch/brace when you walk, use it to walk into and out of the physician’s office. Walk at a comfortable pace.
Before you see the physician, think about all of your symptoms/problems. Why are you disabled? Tell the physician all of your problems.
- If you are seeing a physician for a physical exam, and he/she asks you what your problems are, list both your physical complaints as well as your mental complaints (such as depression, anxiety, tiredness, tearfulness, sleepiness, sluggishness, loss of appetite, no interest in usual activities, anger, memory problems, concentration problems, etc.)
- If you are seeing a physician for a “mental” exam, tell him/her all of your physical complaints as well (such as pain, tiredness, stomach problems, etc.)
- Be careful to list only those problems which are recurring and frequent. For example, if you have a simple head cold, this is not the type of complaint to mention.
- If you need to, write down all of your problems and symptoms before you leave the house for your appointment. Ask someone to assist you if necessary.
TRY NOT TO MINIMIZE OR EXAGGERATE YOUR PROBLEMS
Do not exaggerate the severity of your symptoms and complaints. Do not “growl” excessively or make a lot of “faces.” You may destroy your own credibility because the physician will not believe you can be in that much pain. Helpful and straightforward answers will make a better impression on the examining physician.
Do not minimize your problems either. This is not the time to brag about how much you can lift, how far you can walk, and so forth. Be honest about your limitations. Again, you should not exaggerate your symptoms, but don’t understate your pain or other symptoms and the problems they cause you.
BE CLEAR ABOUT YOUR PROBLEMS AND BE COURTEOUS TO THE STAFF
It is important that, when you tell the physician and/or the nurse about your complaints/symptoms, you make it clear that you have had these problems (to whatever extent) since the time you first stopped working (if not before).
Of course, be polite and courteous to the physician and his/her staff. Any disagreements/arguments will be noted in the physician’s evaluation and can be used against you. Do not volunteer excessive information about your personal life. Simply tell the physician/nurse what are your physical and mental complaints.
Do not “rest up” for the exam so that you can be feeling your “absolute best.” Continue with your normal activities in the days prior to the exam so that you can show the physician how you normally feel.
Be yourself, be honest, and try to relax. But be aware. The physician and his/her staff are looking for clues that suggest you are not being honest with them. Don’t give them a reason to think you are not telling the truth. Use common sense and good judgment at all times.
If you were sent a form to complete to bring to the examination, please complete this form, keeping in mind the following general instructions:
1. If you are asked to list your health problems, medical history, symptoms, etc., please list all of your major problems, such as (only if applicable of course), pain, fatigue, depression, memory/concentration/attention problems, and anything else which would make it difficult for you to work at a job.
2. If you are asked to list any side effects from medicine, such as drowsiness, fatigue, confusion, stomach problems, blurred vision, dry mouth, etc., please be sure to list them.
3. If you are asked to describe a “typical day,” please just leave this blank.
4. If you are asked: “Why are you not able to work?” please simply answer: “Because of my health problems.”
5. If you are asked about your ability to do daily activities, household work, etc., please answer any such questions as if you are having a “bad day,” but add a statement (if applicable) that “it depends on the day.”
6. If possible, please email or fax me a copy of the form to review before your examination. Please don’t worry if you are not able to do this. Also, I will not call you unless I think there is a serious problem with your form.