We look forward to taking care of you and making you feel as comfortable as we possibly can. These tips will help you have the best possible experience.
Before Your First Visit
If you are new to our practice or have not been seen for over a year, please come early to allow time to fill out necessary paperwork.
- Bring a written list of all of your current medications or put them in a paper bag and bring them along with you.
- Write down a list of all prior major illnesses, operations, hospitalizations, and medical allergies.
- Be aware of what illnesses run in your family.
- Don’t forget to bring your insurance cards with you.
To save time, you can submit your new patient paperwork online. Completing the form may require up to 15 minutes, but is time well spent. It will help you to recall details of your past medical history and help put current symptoms in perspective for the doctor. This is also a good time to write down any questions you may want to ask the doctor.
During Your First Visit
You will be asked to register at our reception desk and to fill out a comprehensive health history questionnaire (if you have not already printed and completed the new patient paperwork prior to your appointment.)
The receptionist will verify that we have your current address and contact information. She will also need to review your current insurance information, so be sure to bring your insurance cards with you.
You will then be taken to the nurses’ station where your vital signs will be recorded. Most patients will be asked to partially disrobe and put on a paper examination gown.
The physician or physician assistant will then interview you and perform a focused physical examination. Depending on the problem, this may include listening to the lungs/heart, and examining the abdomen.
When appropriate, a simple digital rectal examination is performed. (This requires no preparation and only takes a few seconds.) After you are dressed, the doctor will join you to discuss his assessment of the situation and what tests may be needed. You are welcome to bring along a family member or friend to join you for this discussion, if you wish.