Answering your questions about questionnaires
9/8/2026 by By Mayo Clinic staff
You may have noticed when checking in for your appointment, either online or in person, that you're being asked more questions. While these questions may not seem to be related to why you're coming in, we're using this information to improve the care you receive. Learn more about the questions being asked and why we're asking them.
How can I check in for my appointment?
You have three options to check in for your appointment, including:
- Come to the desk.
- Use the kiosk.
- Go online, using either the Mayo Clinic app or the patient portal.
Why am I being asked to complete one or more questionnaires?
We ask you to complete a questionnaire before or during check in because your particular series of questions helps your care team better understand your health. Some are routinely used to screen for common conditions and see how you're feeling or functioning in general. Others may be used to assess an underlying condition, such as asthma.
How do I complete a questionnaire?
Questionnaires can be completed through one of these options:
- Online in the patient portal before arriving for your appointment.
- On a tablet after you check in and while you're waiting for your appointment or during the rooming process.
How is this information used?
Your care team will use the answers to your questions to determine whether further intervention is needed. Certain questionnaires are important to your healthcare professional's assessment, and completing the questionnaires beforehand will leave more time during your appointment to address other issues.
What can I do to help?
Answer the questions as honestly as possible. Remind your care team about any responses to questions you'd like to discuss further.