HPV facts for girls, women and the people who love them
Only about 63% of teens in the U.S. are fully vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV) — a vaccine that can prevent certain types of cancer.
Visiting a primary care doctor for the first time can feel like a big step. Your primary care physician, or PCP, plays a key role in your overall health. Starting out on the right foot can make all the difference.
Preparing ahead of time can help you have a smooth, stress-free visit — and set the foundation for a strong, ongoing relationship with your care team.
Before your appointment
Set aside some time to get ready for your appointment.
1
Complete forms in advance.
2
List your current medications.
Write a list of the medications, vitamins and supplements you are taking, along with their respective dosages, or put them in a bag and bring them to your appointment.
3
Write down your questions and concerns.
Prepare questions and any notes about one or two additional concerns you would like to address if time permits. Focus on your most important concerns first.
4
Know what to bring.
Gather the items you’ll need to bring to your appointment, which typically include:
Valid photo ID
Your insurance card
Credit or debit card for any anticipated co-payments
When you arrive
On the day of your appointment, a few simple steps can help your visit go more smoothly.
Be sure to arrive on time for your appointment. Most primary care practices require patients to notify the clinic at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a late cancellation or no-show fee.
1
Use your phone to confirm your arrival.
When you get to the clinic, you can use your phone to complete the check-in process and confirm you’re in the waiting area. Simply tap “I’m here” in the Sharp app or respond to a text message, and your care team will know you’re ready.
2
Communicate openly.
Be honest about your symptoms, lifestyle and concerns. Your doctor relies on accurate information to provide the best care.
3
Ask questions and take notes.
Don’t hesitate to speak up if something isn’t clear. Consider taking notes or asking your companion to help capture important details.
4
Focus on what matters most.
If you have multiple concerns, prioritize your top one or two so there’s enough time to address them thoroughly.
After your appointment
What you do after your visit is just as important as what happens during it.
1
Review your care plan.
Take a few minutes to go over instructions, medications and next steps. Make sure you understand what to do and when.
2
Schedule follow-up care.
If your doctor recommends additional tests, treatments or visits, schedule them as soon as possible to stay on track.
3
Take medications as directed.
If you were prescribed medication, be sure to take it exactly as instructed.
4
Stay connected through your Sharp account.
You can view test results, message your doctor, request refills and manage appointments from — all from your Sharp account.
A partner in your health
Getting the most out of your doctor’s appointment isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about being prepared, staying engaged and following through.
When you take an active role, you help your care team better understand your needs. Together, you can make confident decisions about your health.
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