How Can I Remember Important Medical Information? 

A urologist explains how doctors help patients understand and remember important information from their medical appointments. 

Kian Asanad, MD, a urologist with USC Urology, part of Keck Medicine of USC, explains the importance of keeping track of your medical information.  

It can be difficult sometimes for patients to remember everything that was said at a medical appointment. Many times, if you’re hearing things about a new diagnosis for the first time, it can be an emotional situation, which might make it hard to remember details about what was said. One of the best things to do in this situation is to bring someone else with you to your appointment.  

I specialize in sexual medicine and fertility, so many times my patients bring their partners to the appointment so that I can speak to the couple together. This way they can discuss both of their wishes openly, and we can work together to come up with a treatment plan that considers the goals of both members of the couple. For things like erectile dysfunction and infertility, it’s really important to look at the whole picture. Depending on the patient — for example, if they’re elderly — having a caregiver or family member there is helpful as well.  

As your doctor, I can also help by reviewing your plan and pinpointing key areas of concern. For many men, I provide a checklist of action items they can refer to when they’re at home. And if you still have questions or are having trouble keeping track of medical information, we always welcome follow-up questions to our office via telephone or the myUSCchart app.

Topics