Your first visit checklist

Before you come

• Come on a Monday or Thursday, and register before 11:30 AMThe OPD runs 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Arriving early means a shorter wait and more time for your consultation.
• Bring all previous reports — blood tests, X-rays, MRI or ultrasound scansEven old ones. Seeing how things have changed over time is often more useful than a single result.
• Bring a list of every medicine you take, with dosesIncluding supplements, ayurvedic or herbal preparations, and anything bought over the counter. Photos of the strips are fine.
• Bring any prescriptions or discharge summaries from other doctors
• Note down when your symptoms started and how they've changedWhich joints, what time of day it's worst, what makes it better or worse.
• If you can, photograph swelling or rashes when they appearThey often settle by the time of the visit — a photo on your phone is very helpful.
• Bring a family member or friend if you'd likeA second pair of ears helps you remember what was discussed.

What happens at the visit

A first rheumatology consultation is mostly about listening and examining. I'll ask in detail about your symptoms and history, examine your joints and any affected areas, and review the reports you've brought. Where it helps, I may use ultrasound in the clinic to look at a joint directly. By the end you'll have a clear sense of what's likely going on, what tests (if any) are needed, and what the plan is.

After the visit

• Keep your reports and prescriptions together in one folder for next time
• If tests are ordered, bring the results to your follow-up — don't wait for them to be "abnormal"
• Start any prescribed treatment as directed, and note any side effects to discuss
• For urgent concerns between visits, message on WhatsApp