Readers have suggestions about forms
Dear Readers: We printed a letter from a reader complaining about having to fill out forms at the doctor's office and have since received a lot of reader input! Here's what others had to say:
Elsie Brown of Madison, Ala., says: "As I was reading the column concerning filling out forms in a doctor's office and those who have trouble writing, I got to wondering why the office staff doesn't just give all patients a copy of the last form they filled out and a red pen to make any changes. It seems to me that would make it easier for the staff to make any corrections of information to be transferred to permanent records and also would cut down on the amount of writing a patient has to do." From Heloise: A perfect hint!
Rita Novak, via e-mail, says: "Here's one suggestion that has worked for us in filling out medical forms, because we feel pressured and sometimes don't have the information needed with us. Most doctor's offices will gladly supply the forms in advance so you can fill them out at home. We have had them mailed to us, and we have also stopped by to pick them up."
Rose, via e-mail, says: "I keep a file in my computer of all significant medical problems and surgeries I have had, along with the dates of each. I also have a file with all current medications and dosages I am taking, including any over-the-counter products such as vitamins. I print a copy of each and carry it with me anytime I am going for a doctor's appointment. Normally, with this in hand, all I have to do is fill in my name and address and say "see attached" for the other information. The clerical staff seems to prefer this, and many say it is easier for them."
Thank you so much to all the readers who took the time to chime in. On this touchy subject, I would love to have input from health-care professionals and front-office staff with hints to help. Heloise
Dear Heloise: I used to hate going to the grocery store and standing in line waiting to be checked out. Finally, I came up with the idea to go late at night. Usually a neighbor and I go together for safety. When we get to the store, it is practically empty! This makes shopping a pleasant experience. We often have dinner before shopping, and it gives my girlfriend and me a chance to catch up. Amanda in Texas
Laura, via fax, says: "When I get off work at midnight, I go to a large discount store and do my shopping. This makes it a snap, and there are no crowds to deal with." Heloise
Dear Heloise: Many of us like the biting, briny taste of martini olives. When I get a new jar of olives, I pour out, oh, about 1/4 of the jar juice and replace it with vinegar. Then I put it in the refrigerator. The olives are ready in two to three hours. Yummmmm! Donald R. Stoker, M.D., Fredericksburg, Va.
King Features Syndicate