• Write a 1–3 sentence summary of the main problem and when it started.
• List top 3 symptoms with dates and how they affect daily life.
• Bring meds/supplements list and relevant records or photos.
• Decide your top 1–2 goals for the visit.

• Lead with your summary; keep explanations concise.
• Ask clarifying questions: “What are the likely causes?” “What’s the plan if this first approach doesn’t help?”
• Request plain-language explanations of tests or medications.
• Take notes or ask permission to record important instructions.

• Review instructions in your portal or written summary.
• Email or message a short recap (“My understanding is…”) if anything is unclear.
• Track symptoms and responses to treatment for follow-up.

• Informed consent and the right to refuse non-emergency treatments.
• Access to your medical records and test results.
• Privacy/confidentiality of your health information (HIPAA in the U.S.).
• The right to a second opinion and to change providers.

These are general principles; specifics can vary by state and by setting. Check your local regulations and facility policies.

• Ask for the reason in writing and the specific policy or guideline being cited.
• Request escalation: “Who can review this decision?”
• Document dates, names, and outcomes of calls/messages.
• Use patient advocate or ombuds services when available.

• Medical Records Request (DOCX)
• Appeal Letter Template (DOCX)

Allopathic medicine; focuses on diagnostics, medications, and procedures. Residency-trained in a specialty (e.g., internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery).

Similar training and licensure to MDs; includes musculoskeletal/whole-person emphasis and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT).

Focus on prevention, nutrition, lifestyle, and natural therapies. Licensing and scope differ by state; verify credentials and local regulations.

Combines conventional and complementary methods; often emphasizes root-cause analysis, lifestyle, and multi-disciplinary collaboration.

• Lifestyle foundations: sleep, nutrition, movement, stress management.
• Diagnostics: appropriate labs/imaging with clear interpretation and follow-up.
• Stepwise plans: try, measure, adjust (shared decision-making).

Ask about known benefits, risks, alternatives, and the level of evidence. Inform your provider about all supplements or treatments you’re using.