visit with Dr. Gallina

How to have a productive visit with Dr. Gallina

• Plan ahead
• Consider asking a friend or family member to accompany you. If you need a translator, ask another adult to accompany you. Don’t rely on a child to translate or to otherwise assist you.
• Dress appropriately for the office visit. Wear loose clothing that is easy to take-off and put on without causing undue pain.
• Bring a notepad so that you can remember what she says.
• Bring a written list of any questions you may have about your problem.
• Arrive early so you can complete any required forms or tests before meeting with Dr. Gallina.

• Be up front with your information. Dr. Gallina uses the information you provide in her assessment and recommendations for your treatment.
• Don't forget to ask your questions.
• Listen carefully, and if necessary, take notes on what Dr. Gallina tells you.
  • Speak up if you don’t understand a medical term.
  • Be sure you thoroughly understand the doctor’s recommendation/instructions for taking medication, exercise, ambulation, etc.
• By taking notes, you'll remember what she says. Ask her to repeat anything if you didn't have time to write it down.
• Ask if you don't understand something. Make sure you understand Dr. Gallina's recommendations.
• Be honest and complete when talking with Dr. Gallina. Share your point of view and don’t hold back any information.
• Stick to the point. It is always enjoyable to share personal experiences or areas of common interest, but try to keep it brief in order to get the most out of your visit with the doctor.
• Ask Dr. Gallina questions about what you can expect from your treatment, what impact the treatment will have on your daily activities, and what you can do to avoid further injury and disability.
• Dr. Gallina, whenever possible, will give you hand-outs, brochures, or websites, that you and your family members can review at home.

When you get home:

• Review what Dr. Gallina told you, notes you wrote in the Doctor’s office and any materials the doctor gave you. If you can’t remember something or if you don’t understand what the doctor said, call the office for clarification.
• Follow Dr. Gallina’s instructions exactly. Be sure to rest the injury if told to do so, take the full course of medication prescribed, and be sure to follow any prescribed exercise routine. Remember you are a vital part of your health care team.
• Keep Dr. Gallina informed of any significant changes in your condition.
• Follow up with Dr. Gallina for test or radiology results, any adverse reactions to medication or any complications/changes in your condition.

How do I know what type of activities I can do?

• Dr. Gallina will determine which activities are safe and beneficial to your recovery.
• Do not undertake strenuous activities without first consulting the doctor.
• Patients are encouraged to be as active as possible during their treatment. Active patients recover more quickly.