While you’ll have time in the future to learn the ins and outs of PH, having a basic understanding of the illness and some common PH terms will be helpful for your first appointment.

Visit PHA’s insurance guide for general information and resources to help you assess your situation. Make sure you know the answers to the following questions before your appointment:

• Do you have prescription coverage?
• What is your copay structure?
• Do you need referrals and prior authorization and how do you obtain them?

• Note the names of your doctors and their contact information
• Maintain a written list of all your medications. Include the following information on the list:
  • Name of medication
  • Dosage and frequency
  • Why you take the medication
  • When you began taking it
  • Which physician prescribed the medication
• Sign up for your electronic medical records or obtain a written copy.
• Track your test results and labs.

Bring this list with you to your appointment. If the doctor wants to order a test, procedure or new medication, you can add the following questions to your list:

• What is the test, procedure or medication?
• Why do I need it?
• What will be done during the test?
• How will the test results affect how you treat me?
• How often will I need to have it done?
• What are the potential complications and/or side effects?

Don’t be afraid to tell your doctor if you don’t understand an answer or explanation.

Ask a family member or friend to accompany you to your appointment. Your loved one can provide support in the waiting room, confirm that you ran through all your questions and take notes on your doctor’s responses. Refer your loved one to our caregivers section to for more information about providing care and support to a PH patient.

Meeting a new doctor can be daunting but remember that while your doctor is an expert in his or her field, you are the only one who knows exactly how you’re feeling. Remember – no one knows your body better than you.