Doctor's Appointment Checklist and Doctor Discussion Guide

Doctor Checklist

You've made the doctor's appointment, but your work doesn't end there. Make sure to go to the appointment prepared. Here are some suggestions:

• Complete the ADHD Checklist
• Gather report cards from teachers. If an adult, still gather report cards from the school years, in addition to any job performance reviews. The feedback can help the physician
• Spend a few minutes reviewing the Doctor Discussion Guide questions provided here for you, and jot down any of your own, so you don't forget once you're in the doctor's office
• Be prepared to talk about any medications you or your child are currently taking
• Take inventory of ALL of you or your child's symptoms and be prepared to discuss them. Think about the following:
• Stress
• Diet/Appetite
• Mood
• Sleep
• Alcohol or substance use (be as honest as possible)
• Bring someone with you. Your buddy may hear something that maybe you did not, or remember to ask a question that might not have occurred to you

Doctor Discussion Guide

The doctor will discuss treatment options with you and advise you on which medication might be best. You may want to ask the following questions:

• How much experience does the doctor have with ADHD in children or adults?
• Will the ADHD medication effectively treat the core symptoms of ADHD: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity?
• What type of medication is it?
• What are common side effects associated with the medication and how are they best managed?
• How much experience do doctors have with the medication?
• Does it have a well-documented safety profile?
• Will the effect of the medication last all day?
• Does the medication come in different dosage strengths in order to match exactly the right dosage for the patient?
• Will once-daily medications effectively control my or my child's symptoms?
• Is there an option for children who can't swallow pills?