Questions to Ask at Your Child’s Doctor Appointment

A short list can help you leave your child’s appointment knowing what to do next. Pick the questions that fit your family and bring them on paper or your phone.

Before the visit

• What are my top two or three concerns? When did I first notice them?
• What changes have I seen at home, school, or childcare?
• What medicines, supplements, or treatments is my child taking? Bring the names or containers if helpful.
• What questions does another parent or caregiver want me to ask?

During the visit

• What do you think is going on, and what else could explain it?
• What are our options? What are the benefits and downsides of each?
• What should we do at home, and how will we know if the plan is helping?
• Can you explain that in another way or write it down?
• What should I tell my child about the plan?

Before you leave

• What happens next, and who will arrange any tests, referrals, or follow-up?
• If a medicine is recommended, how should we use it, and what should we do if we have questions?
• What changes should prompt a call, and who should we contact after hours?
• What information should we share with school or another caregiver?

Ask for written instructions and check that you understand them. If something does not make sense later, call the care team. For an emergency, seek emergency help rather than waiting for a summary.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers more tips for making the most of your child’s health appointments.

More support for your family

VisitAssist can help you remember what was discussed at your child’s appointment. See how VisitAssist works for parents. Review any summary against your clinician’s instructions; summaries can contain mistakes or leave things out.

Questions to ask at your child’s appointment · Prepare for a well-child visit · Share a visit with caregivers · Questions after a sick visit