Announcement
Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day
September 14, 2007

Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day encourages people to get needed routine healthcare and screening.  Make an appointment for a visit, attend a health event in the community, or help a friend, neighbor, or family member do the same.  

When is Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day?

Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day is the third Tuesday of each September, but any day is a good day to take a loved one to the doctor or another health professional.

If you can't get an appointment in September, then make an appointment for another time. The point is to see a health care provider and begin taking charge of your health.

Why is there a Take a Loved One for a Checkup Day?

Many people wait until there is an emergency before they go see a doctor. This day highlights the importance of prevention and early detection by getting regular healthcare and screening. 

How can I join in? 

• Think of someone you know who hasn't been to the doctor lately, make an appointment for them and then take them. 
• Go to one of the local health fairs or community events occurring in your community.
• If you haven't been to the doctor in a while, make an appointment for yourself.
• If you don't already have a doctor, or don't have health insurance and live in central Ohio, link to local resources below.  

Healthcare Resources
Health, dental, or vision care for limited income  
Find Affordable Healthcare at http://ask.hrsa.gov/pc/ 

It’s Your Health?Take Charge!  
Be Prepared, Communicate and Follow Up.

Improving your health starts with you. Follow these simple steps to partner with your doctor by preparing for your visit, what to do while at your visit, and how to follow-up after your visit.

1) BE PREPARED

No one knows more about your health than you do. Prepare for every visit and exam to make the best use of your time with the doctor.

• Know your personal and family health history
• Research your health condition
• Write a list of questions

2) COMMUNICATE

Effective communication with your doctor and active participation in treatment decisions helps you get the care you need.

• Ask questions when you don’t understand
• Answer the doctor’s questions completely and honestly
• Repeat what you hear in your own words until you are sure you understand

3) FOLLOW-UP

After each visit to your doctor:

• Follow the agreed upon treatment plan
• Track any change in your symptoms
• Tell your doctor if you are having any problems

Learn more about these steps at part of a free workshop offered by Columbus Public Health, Office of Minority Health - Effective and Empowered Health Care Consumer Workshop.