If there was one thing I could make more time for in the typical medical evaluation, it would be getting to know a patient’s habits, goals, and beliefs, so that the goals and treatment plans were truly aligned with the patient’s needs and expectations. Modern medicine does not often allow for such a deep dive. Doing the work of understanding your goals, beliefs, values and habits ahead of a visit with your doctor can help make sure that you show up prepared to make a treatment plan that honors you and meets your needs.
