Make a list of questions and concerns before your appointment.
Dress comfortably and in clothes that are easy to remove, as you may be asked to change into a hospital gown during your visit.
Bring a list of all medications you are currently taking. Include all over-the-counter drugs such as vitamins, supplements, allergy medication, and aspirin. Don’t forget about medications such as eye drops and insulin.
A family member or caregiver is always welcome to accompany you to your appointment. Remember, however, that your physician may ask you highly personal questions about your health history.
Check with your insurance company to determine if a co-payment is required. If so, please be prepared to pay your co-payment at the time of your appointment.
Arrive ahead of time so you can relax.
Check-In
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When you arrive, please check in at the front desk. We will update your medical record if any information such as your address, phone number, or insurance carrier has changed. We will also accept your co-payment (if you have one) at this time. We will then quickly send you to your appointment.
During Your Visit
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When you come to see your provider, we want to make sure that everything goes smoothly for you.
While the purposes of your appointments may vary, some things should always remain constant. Here’s what to expect when you arrive:
In the privacy of an exam room, the office assistant may ask you to change into a hospital gown.
Your provider will talk to you about your reason for coming in order to ensure that we can meet your expectations for the appointment.
We will ask about your medical history. These questions will include your previous illnesses, the severity of the symptoms of those illnesses, family members with similar illnesses, your health habits (including alcohol and tobacco use), your diet and exercise, and other general health questions.
Your provider may recommend tests. When a test is suggested, your provider will tell you what he or she hopes to learn from it, how long the test will take, and how and when he or she will tell you about the results.
Your provider may make a diagnosis during the exam, telling you what you have, what causes it and what treatment options are available to you.
If the services of a specialist are needed, your provider will make arrangements for you.
If follow-up appointments are needed, your health care provider will make sure that you are seen in a timely way.