Managing appointments

What is the appointment is for? 
If you are not sure, call the service that organised the appointment to find out.

Is the appointment face-to-face or via telehealth?
If you are not sure, call the service that organised the appointment to find out.

Is a physical examination required for the appointment?
If so, it is a good idea to prepare your child for this. Make sure they wear clothes that are comfy and easy to take off for the exam, like shorts and a singlet.

Does your child feel scared or worried when they have to go to the doctor? Is there a specific time during the visit that makes them feel anxious?
Some children feel more nervous before the visit, when they arrive at the hospital, in the waiting room, or during the actual visit. Being aware of this and letting your child's care team know ahead of time, can help them prepare for your visit.

Is there a support person who you or your child would like to attend the appointment with you?
This could be a grandparent or sibling. Let them know early about the appointment.

Is there something that helps your child to calm/settle that you can bring to the appointment?
Organise to bring a favourite soft toy, book or game. You might like to consider a reward or treat that you can give them following the appointment (this doesn’t have to be a large cost; it can be planning to do your child’s favourite activity).

Do you have questions for your healthcare team?
Take time to think about any questions you/your child have for the doctor/therapist. Write these questions down and bring them to the appointment.

How much does your child want to be involved in the conversation during the appointment?
Find this out ahead of time, as it will help them to feel comfortable during the appointment. This becomes more important as your child gets older and will move from child to adult services.

Do you have any other appointments planned for your child?
If you have multiple appointments, you can let your teams know and they may be able to move these appointments to the same day, if possible.

Here are some things that you can do during your child's appointments to make the most of them:

• Ask everyone in the room to introduce themselves (if they haven't already).
• Mention that you have a list of questions at the start of the appointment to ensure they all get answered.
• Let the doctor/therapist know how your child likes to communicate, so that they can involve them in the conversation.
• If you're unsure about something (e.g. what a test result means, what to expect during a procedure), ask the doctor/therapist to explain.
• Ask for a contact number in case you have questions after the appointment.
• Request written notes for important information discussed during the appointment.
• Find out when the doctor/therapist wants to see your child again and if it will be in-person or through telehealth.
• When booking the follow-up appointment, check if you have any other appointments already booked. If so, ask if the follow-up can be arranged for the same day.