New Rheumatologist- How do I make the most of this visit?

If you can access your prior lab results and visit summaries it helps to have
them sent over in advance of your appointment. Have hard printouts with you if available. The list of current meds is important at intake for their office assistants. Script your visit on an index card with your most pertinent symptoms and concerns. If you have a helpful companion for an extra pair of ears that can be comforting. You are examining the doctor as well. Did they
explain your treatment plan and acknowledge your history. Don’t expect too
much from the initial visit. It can take months to arrive at rheumatological
diagnosis and symptom control.

Along with @seniormeds suggestions I do think it's important to plan your conversation with the rheumatologist (or any new doctor). The Patient Revolution website has some tools and suggestions that have helped me in the past - https://www.patientrevolution.org/tools.

There are a couple of autoimmune related similar discussions in the PMR group that might be helpful:
-- First visit rheumatologist tomorrow-questions: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/first-visit-rheumatologist-tomorrow-questions/
-- First meeting with Rheumatologist for PMR, need suggestions: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/first-meeting-with-rheumatologist-need-suggestions/

1. Dr should do a complete physical exam including range of motion tests.
2, Dr. should order comprehensive bloodwork with a follow up consult to diagnose condition as PMR, RA or GCA and Rx for treatment.

I find written notes I take 2 doc helpful. I write down ALL my concerns and questions. good luck!

- Bring a list of your symptoms from the worst to the least.
- Bring a copy of any pertinent lab work, biopsies, tests or imaging results (disc and report if possible) that have already been done.
- Make a list of any hospitalizations or surgeries and the year they were done, so you’re prepared if they ask.
- Bring a list of any meds/dosage (I take multiple prescriptions so I give them a tidy typed out list to make it easy).
- Ask what tests will be run and how long it will take for those results to come in. Write down all your other questions.
- Bring a pen and paper.
- Bring someone if possible as an extra set of ears and/or to take notes (that was invaluable when my husband was diagnosed with cancer as his mind went blank - we were able to go over everything at home from those notes).

Wishing you the very best of luck at your appointment!

what GREAT advice!!!! and how is ur husband?

I even list all my vitamins and supplements, as well as anything otc

He is doing great now - thank you for asking!!

@januaryjane you’ve gotten some great tips from other members!. I’ve added a discussion that happened some years ago.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/your-tips-on-how-to-get-off-to-the-best-start-with-a-new-specialist/
Just go into visit prepared and relaxed. With all of these tips, you’ll do just fine ! And take someone with you who is willing and able to take good notes!

great! and ur welcome!