How to Prepare for a GP Appointment
A GP appointment is typically 10 minutes long. Arriving prepared helps you make the most of that time, ensures your doctor has the information they need, and can lead to better outcomes. This guide walks you through exactly how to prepare — and how MediCheckMe can help.
Medical Disclaimer: This page provides general health information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your symptoms. If you believe you have a medical emergency, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
Why Preparation Matters
Research shows that patients who arrive prepared have more productive consultations. Your GP can make better decisions when they understand the full picture — how long you've had symptoms, what makes them better or worse, and what you've already tried.
10 Minutes
Average NHS GP appointment length — preparation helps you use every second effectively
Clear Communication
Structured symptom descriptions help your GP ask the right follow-up questions
Written Summary
A printable summary means nothing is forgotten under pressure
Create your GP preparation summary now
MediCheckMe guides you through all the information your GP will need — in just a few minutes.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare
Write Down Your Main Symptom
Lead with your primary concern. Be specific: not just 'I have a pain' but 'I have a sharp pain in my lower right abdomen that started 3 days ago and gets worse when I move.' If you have multiple concerns, list them in order of importance.
Describe the Symptom in Detail
For each symptom, note: Where is it? What does it feel like? When did it start? How long does it last? What makes it better or worse? Have you had it before? A severity scale of 1–10 can also be helpful.
Note Any Associated Symptoms
Think about what else has changed — sleep, appetite, mood, energy levels, bowel habits, urination, or any new physical changes. Even things that seem unrelated may be important.
Bring a Medication List
Include all prescription medications (with doses and frequency), over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and vitamins. Note any allergies or previous adverse reactions to medications.
Bring Your Medical History
List any known medical conditions, previous operations or hospital admissions, and relevant family history (e.g. heart disease, cancer, diabetes in close relatives).
Prepare Your Questions
Write down 1–3 questions you want answered — for example: 'What tests might I need?', 'Could this be serious?', or 'What should I do if it gets worse?' Prioritise the most important one.
Know What You're Hoping For
Think about what outcome you'd like — a diagnosis, referral, prescription, or reassurance. It's fine to tell your GP what you're hoping for at the start of the appointment.
On the Day: What to Bring
- Your NHS number (found on NHS letters, prescriptions, or your NHS App)
- Photo ID or proof of address if registering as a new patient
- A list of all current medications with doses
- Your written symptom summary (or a printed MediCheckMe report)
- A list of your questions for the GP
- A support person if needed — for complex appointments or if English isn't your first language
During the Appointment
- Start with your most important concern — don't leave it to the end
- Be honest and direct — don't downplay symptoms out of worry about wasting the GP's time
- Ask for clarification if you don't understand what the GP says
- Check you understand the plan: what happens next, what to watch for, and when to return
- Ask for written instructions or a printed plan if you think you might forget