In his quest to revolutionize the way healthcare is practiced today and move beyond alternative and complementary medicine, he has founded the Center for Appreciative Medicine in Monterey, California. To inspire patients to get the best health care possible, he has compiled the following tips.

HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR DOCTOR'S VISIT

1.) Be the first patient in the morning or the first patient after lunch.

2). Rehearse your concerns so that when you're in the doctor's office your needs will be
     articulated in a clear and concise way.

3.) Take a friend or relative with you for support and to help you retain any technical information.

4.) Ask if you can tape record the visit. Most people forget 80% by the time they leave the
     parking lot. About 95% is forgotten by the time they get home.

5.) Be clear as to the purpose of your visit.
     Explain the problem, ask questions, get answers, and find solutions.

6.) Be assertive.
     Don't be afraid to question your doctor if you feel your concerns are not being addressed.

7.) Ask about possible reactions with medications and include all over-the-counter medications.
     Find out if there are any new or alternative prescriptions available.

8.) Obtain copies of all labs test, x-rays, and reports from specialists.
     Make sure if you see more than one doctor that they are all communicating with each other.
     Knowledge is power and you are your own best health advocate.

9.) Make sure you walk away with a healing plan that you find acceptable.

10) Always ask your doctor, and yourself, what you can do.
     Lifestyle modification including nutrition, exercise, and stress management, is the most
     powerful resource we have to maximize our health and longevity.