Your Doctor

Don’t wait until you’re ill or facing a health crisis to find a primary care doctor. If you’ve been seeing the same doctor for years, make sure he or she has specialized training and experience in caring for older adults, along with the resources to provide proactive, personalized and coordinated care. And, if you haven’t visited a doctor in a while, the best time is now.

El Camino Health is known for top-quality senior healthcare. In fact, our specialized care has earned us special recognition from the National Committee for Quality Assurance's Patient-Centered Medical Home. Our Senior Health Program offers primary care especially for older adults and a wide range of services and resources for seniors.

And, we make it easy for you to find the doctor who best meets your needs. If you need a doctor in another state, our eldercare consultants can help you find one.

Prepare for Your Doctor Visit

Healthcare has changed dramatically in recent years. Today, you’re the most important member of your healthcare team. If you’re caring for a family member, you may be managing healthcare and doctor visits. Our doctors recognize that caregivers play a critical role, and we’ll work to make sure you have the resources you and your loved one need.

To get the most out of each doctor visit, take some time to prepare:

• Make a list of your concerns or questions. Include the most important matters first. If you have symptoms, provide as many details as possible. Tell your doctor how long you’ve had symptoms, when they’re worst, anything you’ve done to relieve them, and how symptoms are affecting your daily life.
• Make an updated list of all your medications. Use our medication form to make a list of everything you’re taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, along with any supplements such as multivitamins or herbal remedies.

During your appointment, make sure you understand what you need to do after you leave and when to make your next appointment. If your doctor prescribes any medications, ask:

• What’s the medication for?
• Are there any possible side effects? What should I do if they occur?
• How and when do I take the medication?
• Are there any foods or other medicines I should avoid while taking this medication?

Between doctor visits, follow your treatment or preventive health plan, and be sure to let your primary care doctor know about any other healthcare you receive. If you have a problem with your medication or you have new symptoms, call your doctor — don’t wait until the problem worsens. In addition, don’t stop taking any medication without talking to your doctor.

The best healthcare is proactive and preventive. Make sure you keep all your doctor appointments and get recommended screenings or preventive care on time. Following proven preventive care guidelines and keeping in close contact with your primary care doctor can help preserve your health and well-being, and help you lead a longer, more independent life.