What to do after a doctor's appointment
The short answer: review your notes and the doctor's instructions the same day, write down any new questions, and call the office if anything is unclear. Then book the follow-ups and tests you were asked to have, take medicines as directed, and check back if you haven't heard about your results.1
The first day
1. Go over the visit while it's fresh
If someone came with you, sit down together and talk through how the visit went and what you'd like to do differently next time. Then read through the provider's instructions together.2 Fill in gaps in your notes now, before details fade. Our guide to taking notes at an appointment has a simple layout that makes this review quick.
2. Look for anything in writing
Many clinics give you a printed or online summary of the visit. Check it against your own notes. Our guide explains what an after visit summary is and what to look for.
3. Write down new questions
Questions often pop up once you're home. Jot down any new ones about your health, your medicines or your treatment so you can ask them in one call or at your next visit.1
The days and weeks after
4. Follow the plan
Your provider may suggest seeing a specialist, getting a test, starting a new medicine or coming back for another visit. MedlinePlus advises following those instructions, taking medicines as directed and going to your follow-up appointments.1 If you're unsure how to take a medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist rather than guessing. Don't stop or change a prescribed medicine without checking first.
Book referrals and tests soon after the visit, while the plan is clear in your mind. Put the dates in your calendar.
5. Don't assume no news is good news
Test results sometimes slip through the cracks. A systematic review of 19 US studies found that the share of laboratory tests not followed up ranged from 6.8% (79 of 1,163) to 62% (125 of 202). For radiology tests such as imaging, it ranged from 1.0% (4 of 395) to 35.7% (45 of 126).3 The authors noted that most of the studies relied on record reviews, so the true figures could differ, and they called the problem an important safety concern.
Before you leave the office, it helps to ask when and how you'll hear about results. If that date passes, call and ask. MedlinePlus lists wanting test results as a good reason to contact your provider.1
6. Keep tracking and keep a record
Keep an eye on your symptoms and keep an up-to-date list of your medicines.1 Bring both to your next visit. If you share caregiving with family, send them the plan so everyone is working from the same page.
7. Know when to call
MedlinePlus says to contact your provider if you have side effects from medicines or treatments, new symptoms you can't explain, or symptoms that are getting worse. It also suggests calling if a different provider gives you a new prescription, or if you have other questions or concerns.1 If you think you're having a medical emergency, call 911.
For a deeper look at holding on to what you heard, see our guide on how to remember what your doctor said.
Common questions
How soon should I review my notes after a doctor's appointment?
As soon as you can, ideally the same day while the visit is fresh. Go over the instructions, write down any new questions and contact the office if something is unclear.2
What if I haven't heard back about my test results?
Call the office and ask. Studies of US clinics found that some test results aren't followed up, so checking is reasonable and not a nuisance.3
When should I call the doctor after an appointment?
Call if you have side effects from a medicine or treatment, new symptoms you can't explain, symptoms that are getting worse, or questions about the plan.1 For an emergency, call 911.
Sources
- MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Make the most of your doctor visit. Reviewed September 2024.
- MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Caregiving – taking your loved one to the doctor. Reviewed April 2026.
- Callen JL, Westbrook JI, Georgiou A, Li J. Failure to follow-up test results for ambulatory patients: a systematic review. Journal of General Internal Medicine. 2012;27(10):1334–1348.
This guide is general information and isn't medical or legal advice. Always follow the advice of your own doctor or care team. If you think you're having a medical emergency, call 911.