Sample Physician Letters To Patients: Keeping Communication Clear

Subject: Following up on your recent check-up – [Patient Name]

Dear [Patient Name],

It was a pleasure seeing you at your check-up on [Date]. I wanted to follow up with a brief summary and any necessary actions.

Overall, your check-up went well. Your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are within a healthy range. We discussed [mention specific topics, like diet, exercise, or any concerns raised].

As a reminder, you should continue with the following:

• Maintain a balanced diet.
• Engage in regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes most days of the week).
• Take your vitamins as prescribed.

I have also scheduled your next check-up for [Date]. Please let me know if you have any questions before then. You can reach me at [Phone Number] or reply to this email.

Sincerely,

[Physician’s Name]
[Physician’s Title]
[Clinic Name]

[Date]

[Patient Name]

[Patient Address]

Dear [Patient Name],

I am writing to share the results of your recent blood tests. I understand that waiting for results can be stressful, so I want to be as clear as possible.

The good news is that [mention positive results, e.g., “your white blood cell count is normal”]. However, [explain any abnormal results in a straightforward manner, e.g., “your cholesterol level is slightly elevated”].

Based on these results, I recommend the following:

1. Discuss dietary changes to lower your cholesterol, such as reducing saturated fats.
2. Schedule a follow-up appointment in three months to re-evaluate your cholesterol levels.
3. Consider starting a moderate exercise routine.

Please call my office at [Phone Number] to schedule your follow-up appointment. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call.

Sincerely,

[Physician’s Name]
[Physician’s Title]
[Clinic Name]

Subject: Referral to [Specialist Name] – [Patient Name]

Dear [Patient Name],

This email confirms that I have referred you to Dr. [Specialist Name], a [Specialty, e.g., cardiologist], for evaluation of [Reason for Referral].

I have sent your medical records to Dr. [Specialist Name]’s office. Please contact their office at [Phone Number] to schedule your appointment. Their address is [Address].

I will receive a report from Dr. [Specialist Name] after your appointment, and we can discuss the findings and any further steps at your next follow-up appointment.

In the meantime, please continue with any current medications or treatments unless Dr. [Specialist Name] advises otherwise.

If you have any issues scheduling your appointment or have other questions, please contact us. We’re here to help.

Sincerely,

[Physician’s Name]
[Physician’s Title]
[Clinic Name]

[Date]

[Patient Name]

[Patient Address]

Dear [Patient Name],

I am writing to you following our appointment on [Date] to explain your diagnosis of [Diagnosis]. I understand that this news may be difficult to hear, and I want to ensure you have a clear understanding of what it means.

[Provide a simple explanation of the diagnosis. Avoid using complex medical jargon. For example: “You have been diagnosed with a mild form of arthritis. This means that the cartilage in your joints is slightly worn, which can cause some pain and stiffness.”]

The good news is that [Mention positive aspects or potential treatments, e.g., “this condition is manageable with lifestyle changes and medication.”]. The next steps include:

• Discussing a treatment plan.
• Scheduling physical therapy.
• Following up in a few weeks.

We will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss this in more detail and answer any questions you may have. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact the office with any concerns.

Sincerely,

[Physician’s Name]
[Physician’s Title]
[Clinic Name]

Subject: Pre-Operative Instructions – [Patient Name]

Dear [Patient Name],

This email contains important instructions for your upcoming surgery on [Date] at [Time]. Please read these carefully.

Before surgery, you should:

• Avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
• Take your regular medications as instructed by your surgeon. Please confirm this with them.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
• Avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or blood thinners for [number] days before surgery.

Please also bring the following with you on the day of the surgery:

• Your insurance card.
• A list of any medications you are taking.
• A comfortable set of clothing.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my office at [Phone Number].

Sincerely,

[Physician’s Name]
[Physician’s Title]
[Clinic Name]

[Date]

[Patient Name]

[Patient Address]

Dear [Patient Name],

This letter provides information about the medication I have prescribed for you.

I have prescribed [Medication Name] for [Condition]. Please take [Dosage] [Frequency] [Route, e.g., orally] as directed. For example: “Take one tablet twice a day by mouth.”

Important instructions and possible side effects are as follows:

• Take this medication with food.
• Common side effects include [list common side effects].
• Contact me immediately if you experience [list serious side effects].

You can get this prescription filled at [Pharmacy Name and Address]. Please remember to bring your insurance information. If you have any questions or experience any side effects that concern you, please call my office immediately.

Sincerely,

[Physician’s Name]
[Physician’s Title]
[Clinic Name]