Going to the doctor

 

Going to the doctor 

by Liudmyla, Serigne, My Phung, Juan, Yuebing and Zainab 


If you are new to Pittsburgh, what should you do when you need to go to the doctor?


You should:
  • Find out which clinics and hospitals are close to where you live
  • Find out where free clinics are, if you don't have insurance
  • Find out how to buy medical insurance at a reasonable price
    • Make sure your doctor takes your insurance 
  • Ask for an interpreter (if you need one) 
  • Ask the receptionist any questions
  • Make sure you have an appointment / check your appointment time
  • Ask if your child can come (because of COVID, kids sometime can't come to the appointment) 
  • Prepare for doctor's questions 
    • What's the matter?
    • Do you have any allergies?
    • What medicines do you take?
    • Prepare to give your contact and personal information 
    • Prepare to get your height, weight and blood pressure checked
  • Research healthcare in Pittsburgh
  • Research transportation in your neighborhood 
  • Explore local web sites online--use a translator if you need help with English

You should talk to:
  • Your doctor 
  • Healthcare organizations in Pittsburgh (UPMC, Highmark)
  • Relatives (family) and friends
  • Neighbors 
  • Classmates and co-workers
  • Supervisor or boss at work 
  • Community organizations 
    • Local immigration organizations or social workers familiar with healthcare professionals 
  • Your insurance company 


Questions you should ask:

  • How can I get to the hospital or clinic?
    • Where is the nearest hospital or clinic?
  • Ask about your pain or symptoms and causes of pain
  • Ask about treatment--how to help your symptoms or help the pain
    • How long will treatment take?
    • How long will it take to treat this illness?
    • How long will it take for the pain to go away?
  • Can I take medicine or supplements instead of going to the doctor?
  • What insurance can I use at this clinic?
    • How can I buy insurance at an affordable price?
  • Where can I take a COVID-19 test?
    • Could you send me a COVID-19 test to my home?
  • Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Resources:





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