Use this before a GP, specialist or other treating-clinician appointment, including a review of ongoing care.
Start with what you want help with
Write down the main concern you would like addressed and any question you keep returning to. If several things are happening, you can ask the clinician to help decide what needs attention first. An assessment may develop over more than one appointment as new information becomes available.
For a first visit, an approximate timeline can help: when concerns began, recent substance-use patterns, changes in health or sleep, and previous care. For a review, focus on what is different, what has helped and what is still difficult. You do not have to organise everything perfectly to ask for help.
Bring information that can change the plan
Tell the clinician about recent use and when you last used, previous withdrawal or overdose, and any current safety concern. Bring a list of medicines and supplements, relevant reports you already have, and details of other clinicians involved. Do not delay attending because something is missing.
You can ask about a support person or interpreter where needed. If a topic is difficult to discuss, say so. You may also want to ask how information is recorded or shared and what the limits of confidentiality are. Preparation is meant to help the conversation, not require you to write a detailed trauma history.
Leave with the next step clearer
Ask about the possibilities being considered, your options and their benefits, risks and practical demands. It is reasonable to ask about costs and alternatives, including what your GP and existing clinicians can continue to provide. Specialist assessment is one part of care when appropriate; continuity with your usual clinicians remains valuable.
Before leaving, check who is doing what, when you will review progress and what to do if things worsen. Ask for an explanation again if it is unclear. At the next appointment, return to any question that remains unanswered. An ongoing care plan can change as your circumstances and understanding develop.
For health professionals
A place in the clinical conversation
For a referral or review, identify the question, relevant trajectory, current risks and care already in place. This optional agenda does not replace assessment, an adequate referral or the receiving service's requirements. Share information through established appropriate channels.
Use the sheet alongside your clinical assessment. It does not produce a diagnosis, measure risk or determine treatment. If seeking a specialist opinion, state the clinical question and relevant history using the usual referral pathway.