Most people go into their first appointment with a new doctor feeling nervous—especially if they haven’t seen a primary care physician in a long time. At My DR Family Clinic, Caridad Gonzalez, MD, often hears the same thing from new patients: “I don’t even know what to ask. I don’t want to waste the doctor’s time.”
And Raydelys Camejo, APRN, calmly reminds them: “There are no bad questions when it comes to your health. The more you ask, the better we can help you.”
Here’s the reality: studies show that more than 50% of patients leave their doctor’s appointment without fully understanding their health problems or treatment plan. Not because the doctor doesn’t explain—but because the patient doesn’t know what questions to ask.
Walking into a new doctor’s office can feel intimidating, especially if English isn’t your first language or if you’re worried about a health issue you’ve been ignoring. Many of our patients in Central Florida—especially Latinos with families—want to take control of their health, but they simply don’t know where to begin.
That’s why preparing questions for your new doctor is one of the smartest decisions you can make. It makes your appointment run more smoothly, reduces anxiety, prevents misunderstandings, and ensures you get the most out of your visit.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to ask, why it matters, what to bring, what to expect, and how to advocate for your health — even if you’ve never done it before.
We’ll help you go into your appointment with confidence, calmness, and preparation.
Why this matters in 2025
The healthcare system in 2025 is not what it was years ago. People are busier, more stressed, and face more chronic conditions such as:
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- heart disease
- anxiety
- obesity
And yet, many adults don’t visit a primary care physician regularly. If you’re interested in better understanding these conditions, you can also check out the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes on our blog.
Dr. Gonzalez explains: “When patients finally come, they often have health problems that could have been prevented with early care.”
Camejo adds: “Asking questions is not only smart — it’s the key to staying healthy and catching problems early.”
Why asking questions matters today
- Preventive care saves thousands of dollars
- Patients who ask questions live healthier lives
- Doctors can give you better care when they understand your concerns
- Reduces anxiety after the date
- It helps you make better use of your limited consultation time
Preventive care is cheaper, easier, and safer than treating illnesses later — and asking the right questions makes all the difference.
What should you ask a primary care physician on your first visit?
(The 10 main questions every patient should ask)
This is the section most patients ask for. Here are the top 10 questions to start your appointment with confidence:
1. What should I know about my overall health right now?
It gives you a clear view of your current state.
2. Are there any health problems I should be aware of based on my age, weight, and family history?
Excellent for detecting risks early.
3. What exams or tests do I need?
Possible evidence:
- blood sugar
- cholesterol
- thyroid
- vitamins
- renal function
4. What are the most important things I should focus on this year?
5. How often should I follow up with you?
6. What lifestyle changes can improve my health the fastest?
7. What symptoms should I never ignore?
8. How can we work together to prevent future illnesses?
9. What vaccines or preventive measures do I need?
10. If I have a problem later, what is the best way to contact you?
Mini Takeaway:
What questions should you ask about your medical history?
Many people—especially busy parents—forget important details of their medical history. But your doctor needs this information to keep you safe.
Ask your new doctor:
- Does my family history put me at risk for heart disease, diabetes, or cancer?
- Do I need additional tests because of my background or origin? (Very relevant for the Latino community.)
- Based on my history, what are my main risks?
- Are my past surgeries, illnesses, or medications still relevant today?
- Do you need to obtain my previous medical records?
Dr. Gonzalez says: “Good information = good care. Every detail helps us protect your health.”
What questions should you ask about symptoms or health problems?
If you’ve been experiencing symptoms, now is the time to ask.
Ask these questions:
- Could this symptom be a sign of a bigger problem?
- What evidence do I need to understand the cause?
- Is this something temporary or something we should keep an eye on?
- What should I do if it gets worse?
- Are there any home remedies or changes that might help?
- What warning signs require you to call him immediately?
Examples of symptoms worth mentioning:
- fatigue
- headaches
- abdominal pain
- difficulty breathing
- sleep problems
- anxiety
- weight changes
Camejo adds: “The body whispers before it screams. If something feels strange — it asks.”
Many women also want to know if certain symptoms are related to ovarian cysts, so learning what the symptoms of ovarian cysts are can help you better understand your health.
Table (Symptoms and Questions)
| Symptom | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Fatigue | Is this due to thyroid issues, vitamins, or sugar? |
| Headaches | Could it be due to pressure, dehydration, or stress? |
| Chest discomfort | When should I go to the ER vs. call here? |
| Digestive problems | Is it my diet or something more serious? |
| Anxiety | Do I need therapy, tests, or medication? |
What questions should you ask about preventive care?
Preventive care saves lives. And money. And stress.
Ask your new doctor:
1. What can I do today to prevent future health problems?
Simple changes prevent:
- diabetes
- heart disease
- obesity
- high pressure
2. What tests does an adult of my age need?
According to CDC guidelines.
3. Do I need vaccines or boosters?
As:
- flu
- tetanus
- COVID
- shingles
- pneumonia
If you want to better understand what types of laboratory tests exist and what they are used for, you can review the different types of laboratory tests to be better prepared for your appointment.
4. How often do I need blood tests?
Many patients also ask how long they should fast before lab tests, especially if it’s their first time.
5. What can I improve in my diet to have better long-term health?
6. How much exercise is ideal for my condition?
Mini Takeaway: Being proactive is ALWAYS cheaper and safer than waiting until you get sick.
And if you work in transportation or need job certification, you might be interested in knowing what a DOT physical exam is and when it’s required.
What questions should you ask about chronic conditions?
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, anxiety, or another condition, ask this:
- What is the real cause of my condition?
- Is my condition under control? How do you know?
- What habits will make the biggest difference?
- Are my current medications still appropriate?
- How can I avoid future complications?
Dr. Gonzalez emphasizes: “A doctor’s job is to keep you healthy — not just treat you when you’re already sick.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What questions should I ask my new doctor?
Ask about your general health, necessary tests, symptoms, preventative care, medications, family history, and how to contact him between appointments.
How do I prepare for my first doctor’s appointment?
Bring your medications, medical history, symptoms, insurance information, and a list of questions. Arrive early and stay calm.
What should I ask about my medical results?
Ask what it means, what values are normal, what they indicate about your health, and whether you need lifestyle changes or medication.
What should I ask about chronic conditions?
Ask if your condition is under control, how to prevent complications, if your medications are still appropriate, and what habits help the most.
What should I ask about preventive care?
Ask about exams, tests, vaccines, and what habits can help you avoid future illnesses.
How My DR Family Clinic can help you
Preparing the right questions not only makes your appointment easier — it helps you take control of your health, avoid future problems, and build a strong relationship with your primary care doctor.
Both Caridad Gonzalez, MD, and Raydelys Camejo, APRN, encourage all patients (especially Latino families) to come in confident, informed, and unafraid to ask questions.
At My DR Family Clinic, we are here to answer your questions, guide you step by step, and help you live a healthier, happier life.
Ready for your first appointment? Schedule your visit today. Your journey to better health starts with a good conversation.
