Evidence · Updated 2026-11-14
Preparing for an appointment
What to bring, what to say and what to ask, so the time with a health professional is well used.
A short list beats a long memory
Appointments are short. Writing things down in advance means the time goes on your questions.
Bring
- A list of your current medicines, including supplements and anything you take over the counter.
- A short account of what you want help with and for how long.
- What you have already tried, and how it went.
- Any other health professionals involved in your care.
Be ready to say
- Whether you have used cannabis before, and in what form.
- Whether you drink alcohol or use other substances.
- Whether you drive or operate machinery for work.
- Whether you are pregnant, trying to be, or breastfeeding.
Ask
- What is the aim, and how will we know if it is working?
- What are the risks and interactions with my other medicines?
- How should I start, and when should I stop or call you?
- What will follow-up look like, and what will it cost?
Afterwards
Write down what you were told. Ask for a copy of any record. If you are unwell, contact the health professional or emergency services.
