1. Keep Your Own Medical Record

Even if your providers use electronic health records (EHRs), it’s still important to keep a personal copy of your medical history. This includes diagnoses, medications, test results, and any instructions you’ve received. Having this information at your fingertips helps prevent gaps when you see new providers or switch between facilities.

Programs like Patient Better offer tools and templates to help you organize and maintain your own records with confidence.

2. Prepare for Every Appointment

Before your visit, take a few minutes to prepare. Write down your top concerns, any recent symptoms, and updates to your medications or health status. This simple preparation helps guide the appointment and ensures you don’t forget to mention something important once you’re in the room.

3. Be Clear About Your Chief Complaint

Vague explanations like “I just don’t feel well” can result in incomplete evaluations. Instead, think through your symptoms: when they started, how often they occur, and what seems to trigger or relieve them. A clear and specific chief complaint helps your provider focus their evaluation and ask better follow-up questions.

4. Take Notes or Bring Someone With You

Healthcare visits can be overwhelming, especially when discussing serious conditions or complicated treatment plans. Taking notes during your visit—or bringing someone with you to help listen and ask questions—can help ensure nothing gets missed or misunderstood.

5. Confirm the Plan Before You Leave

Before walking out of the appointment, make sure you know what’s supposed to happen next. Ask about your diagnosis, what treatments are being prescribed, any follow-up appointments, or whether additional tests are needed. Knowing the plan reduces the chances of confusion or dropped communication later.

6. Follow Up on Tests and Referrals

Many people assume that if they haven’t heard back about a lab or scan, everything is fine. Unfortunately, this isn’t always true. Results can be delayed or overlooked. If you don’t hear back within the expected time, call your provider’s office and ask. Similarly, if you’ve been referred to a specialist, follow up to ensure the appointment is scheduled.

7. Trust Your Instincts and Speak Up

If something doesn’t feel right, say so. You know your body better than anyone. If your symptoms persist, your medications aren’t working, or something in your care plan doesn’t make sense—speak up. Medical professionals rely on your input to make accurate decisions.

8. Understand Your Medications

Medication errors are among the most common medical oversights. Make sure you know the name of each drug you take, what it’s for, and how you’re supposed to take it. Don’t hesitate to ask questions at the pharmacy or in the exam room. Keep your list of medications updated, and double-check that your providers have the most current version too.

9. Learn to Navigate the Healthcare System

Many patients miss out on vital care simply because they don’t know how the system works. Learning how to schedule appointments, manage documents, communicate with providers, and coordinate between visits can make all the difference. That’s exactly what Patient Better is designed to teach—so you’re not left in the dark.

10. Request and Review Your Visit Summary

Most clinics now offer a printed or digital summary after each visit. Don’t ignore it. Review the summary to make sure it matches your understanding of what was discussed. It’s a valuable tool to ensure consistency and clarity in your ongoing care.

Final Thoughts: Prevention Starts With Participation

Avoiding medical oversights isn’t about taking over your provider’s job—it’s about becoming a fully informed, engaged participant in your healthcare. When you show up prepared, ask thoughtful questions, and stay on top of your follow-up, you become your own best advocate.

The truth is, the healthcare system isn’t perfect—but that doesn’t mean you have to get lost in it.

Patient Better exists to help you take control, organize your care, and ensure nothing slips through the cracks.