What to bring to a first consultation so nothing's missed

You've just booked your first appointment at a new practice or with a GP you haven't seen before. Now comes the practical question: what do you actually need to bring so the doctor has what they need and you don't end up back in reception halfway through, hunting for information?

Getting this right matters more than you'd think. A consultation where your clinician has your full picture—your medical history, current medications, previous test results—is more thorough, faster, and often leads to better decisions. Showing up unprepared wastes time and can mean important details slip through.

Your medical history: the foundation

Bring any documents that tell the story of your health. If you're switching practices, ask your previous GP's office to send your file ahead, but don't rely on that alone—bring a printout or digital copy yourself. Include discharge summaries from any hospital stays, surgical reports, pathology results from the last year or two, and imaging reports (X-rays, scans). If you've seen a specialist recently, bring their letter.

If you don't have these documents, write down the key facts: when you had surgery, which operations, any serious illnesses, and approximate dates. Be honest about gaps in your memory; doctors expect this and will work with what you can recall.

Bring a list of every medication and supplement you're taking, including doses and how often. Don't guess—check your bottles or pharmacy records. Include over-the-counter painkillers, antihistamines, vitamins, herbal remedies, and anything else you swallow, inhale, or apply regularly. Photos of your medication bottles work if you're short on time.

Practical items and identifying information

Bring your ID and your medical aid card if you have cover. Have your membership number and any relevant policy details ready, or bring the card itself. If you're paying cash, confirm the practice's payment methods and fees beforehand so there are no surprises.

Bring a list of any allergies—to medications, foods, latex, or anything else relevant to your care. Write them clearly or have them typed. Don't assume the receptionist entered this correctly from a phone call; state it again to the doctor directly.

Bring a notebook or open your phone's notes app. You'll likely receive advice or prescriptions, and writing things down helps you remember. Ask for clarification on anything you don't understand—dosing instructions, warning signs to watch for, when to return for follow-up.

Questions and concerns: write them down first

If you have specific health worries or symptoms, jot them down before you arrive. This sounds basic, but in a consultation room, people often forget what they meant to ask or downplay concerns. Having a short list keeps the conversation focused and ensures your priorities get addressed.

Note the duration and pattern of any symptoms—when they started, what makes them worse or better, what you've already tried. If you're managing a chronic condition, bring a record of recent readings or observations: blood pressure, blood sugar, weight changes, sleep quality, or anything else relevant.

If you're on medication and concerned about side effects or interactions, write that down too. Doctors need to know so they can adjust your treatment.

Before you leave home

Check that the practice has your correct contact details—phone, email, address. Confirm the appointment time and location, and allow extra time if it's a new place. Arrive a few minutes early so you're not rushed.

If you're booking a telehealth appointment, test your internet connection and camera beforehand. Have the same documents and list nearby, as though it were in-person.

The goal of this first visit is to build a foundation. A doctor who sees your full picture from the start can give you better advice and spot patterns you might miss. On Strove, you can read reviews and check that a practice is registered with the HPCSA before you book; once you've confirmed that, show up prepared, and you're already ahead.