Dr: Hi. And how are you today?
Client: OK
PN: Hi Doctor. My name is _____________ and I am a Patient Navigator from JFS. I am here to be an extra set of ears and to take notes on the appointment. Here is a brochure that explains our Patient Navigator program.
Dr: Oh, ok, thanks. I’ve heard from radiology and it appears we have good news; your hip isn’t fractured.
Client: While I’m glad to hear that I’m still in a lot of pain.
Dr: What have you been taking for the pain so far?
Client: Gabapentin
Dr: And does it relive the pain?
Client: Not entirely.
PN: I recall that you wanted to ask if there was a different medication you could take.
Client: Yes.
Dr: How much Gabepentin have you been taking?
Client: 400mg
Dr: So rather than changing the medication, I’d like to increase the dosage to 600mg. I’d also like you to ice the hip for 15 minutes four times a day.
Client: Do you think that physical therapy would be helpful?
Dr: Yes, I’d like to see you doing physical therapy twice a week for a few weeks as well and then we can reevaluate.
PN (to client): Do you know where to go for physical therapy?
Client: I’ve gone to Spaulding before. I guess that’s where I’d go back.
Dr: That would be fine.
PN: (to client): And do you need the number so you can schedule the appointments?
Client: That would be helpful.
Dr: The receptionist will give you that information when you check out with the prescription for the physical therapy.
Client: How long should I do the physical therapy?
Dr: I’d like you to do it twice a week for 3 weeks and then come back to see me.
PN: Since I am not authorized to write down medication information, could you provide us with written medication instructions regarding the Gabapentin please?
Dr: Of course. Those will be printed out for you at the reception desk when you check out and make the follow up appointment. They will also be included in the prescription I will send to the pharmacy.
PN: Thank you