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PhrasesAt the DoctorQuando devo tornare per il controllo?
A2

Quando devo tornare per il controllo?

When do I need to come back for the check-up?

Pronunciation

kon-TROL-lo — double 'l', stress on second syllable. 'Tornare' — tor-NA-re.

When to use it

Ask at the end of any medical visit. Important for follow-up care and knowing when to return.

What it means

'Quando devo' (when do I have to / when must I) uses 'dovere' (must). 'Tornare' means 'to return/come back'. 'Controllo' here means a check-up or follow-up visit — it literally means 'control' but in medicine it refers to a follow-up appointment. 'Visita di controllo' is the full medical term.

Variations

Devo fissare un altro appuntamento?

Do I need to book another appointment?

'Fissare' an appointment means to schedule/fix it — very common

Posso chiamare se peggiora?

Can I call if it gets worse?

Ask for emergency contact in case symptoms worsen

Torno tra due settimane.

I will come back in two weeks.

Confirm the follow-up schedule to the doctor

Mini Dialogue

— Quando devo tornare per il controllo? — Torni tra dieci giorni, dopo aver completato gli antibiotici. — E se sto peggio prima? — In quel caso non aspetti e venga subito. — Capito. Grazie dottore. — Prego. Si rimetta presto.

— When do I need to come back for the check-up? — Come back in ten days, after you have completed the antibiotics. — And if I feel worse before then? — In that case do not wait and come immediately. — Understood. Thank you doctor. — You are welcome. Get well soon.

Cultural Note

In Italian public healthcare, follow-up visits ('visite di controllo') are often covered by the SSN if referred by your GP. However, you may need to book through the CUP (Centro Unico di Prenotazione) or at the hospital reception. Private follow-ups are faster. Always get written instructions ('istruzioni scritte') from your doctor before leaving the appointment.