1. It’s Not Just a Receipt — It’s Your Map

That summary isn’t just a note that says “You were here.” It tells you what today’s visit was about and what needs to happen next.

You’ll usually see:

• What the doctor said you have (or don’t have yet)
• Any new medications or changes
• Follow-up steps — like bloodwork or seeing a specialist
• Notes in regular words that explain what you need to do

It’s not there to confuse you — it’s there to help you remember, especially when your mind is already full.

2. Read It While the Visit Is Still Fresh

Don’t shove it in your bag or ignore the app alert until next week. Pour yourself a cup of tea, take 5 minutes, and look it over:

• Did they prescribe anything new?
• Did they tell you to stop or change a med?
• Is there something you need to schedule?

If anything’s unclear — message the office. I promise, they’d rather explain now than have you show up confused later.

3. Medication Notes Matter

The medication section is one of the most important — and most overlooked.

Even if the doctor didn’t hand you a prescription, check if they updated your chart:

• Is your dosage the same?
• Did they stop something?
• Is your refill at the pharmacy yet?

If you’re waiting more than a day for a prescription — call. Don’t guess. Don’t wait.

4. Referrals Don’t Schedule Themselves

If your summary says something like “refer to dermatology” or “get a chest X-ray,” that means you need to follow up — unless they told you otherwise.

• Sometimes the office faxes the referral and you’re good to go.
• Other times, it’s on you to call and set it up.

And here’s the secret no one tells you: referrals expire. If you wait too long, you might have to go back and get another one approved by insurance. Save yourself the hassle.

5. Yes — There’s an App for That

Most offices now post your entire after-visit summary in their patient portal app. Please use it. It’s not just for lab results.

You can:

• Review your notes
• Track referrals
• Send a message if something feels off
• See your next appointment without digging through papers

Pro tip from the front desk: Check the app the night of your appointment. That’s when updates are usually posted.

A Final Whisper

Your After-Visit Summary isn’t just “extra paperwork.” It’s your voice memo, your to-do list, your memory helper — all wrapped into one.

Read it. Highlight it. Ask about it.

And most of all, know this: you don’t have to figure it all out alone. You’re allowed to ask questions. That’s what we’re here for.