Visiting any physician can be an intimidating and uncomfortable experience. Let us help lessen the stress by sharing great tips to help you navigate the new appointment process.
When making an appointment, write down a list of things you need to tell the provider as well as the names and dosages of any medication your or your family member may be taking including over the counter medications. It is very important we know all the medications you are taking – don’t count on remembering everything.
If the provider asks questions that may seem embarrassing or overly personal to you or your family member, remember that the information you provide allows your doctor to better establish a diagnosis or to determine what treatment is most appropriate. Be honest and don’t withhold information. Never feel embarrassed or shy about asking for clarification about something the provider says.
Utilize the office personnel and medical assistants as they can be additional resources for information. Do not hesitate to ask them questions or express concerns. Advanced preparation for your child’s doctor visit is a vital step towards becoming a partner in your child’s healthcare. Our physicians welcome your active participation in their care.
The following simple tips will help you make the most of your child’s doctor visit:
Appointment Setting Tips
After you have completed the New Patient Registration, you will receive a phone call within 1-2 business days from the New Patient Coordinator to set your first appointment.
The New Patient Coordinator will ask questions pertaining to your first appointment from what symptoms you’re experiencing to what medications you’re currently taking. All of this is to have a clear understanding of what you would like to address at the first appointment.
Make sure to pick a day and time that you will be able to make. It’s always a good idea to show up at least 20 minutes early to your first appointment, so you are able to complete any additional forms.
Before the First Appointment
- Have all medical records from previous doctors sent to our office. We have a Medical Request Form you will fill out that will help with this process. For pediatric patients, we will need their immunizations record.
- Prepare a list of questions for your provider.
- Prepare a list of all medications and dosages including over the counter as well as any drug allergies
Day of your Appointment
- Bring your id and insurance card unless you are self-pay.
- Arrive at least 20 minutes early to finish completing any additional forms.
- Call ahead if you are running late. We do allow a 15 minute grace period, but please be aware that if you arrive late, your wait may be longer. We will do all we can to accommodate your child’s appointment and to minimize the need to reschedule.
- If you need to cancel or reschedule, we do ask that you give a 24 hour notice, so we are able to offer the appointment time to another patient.
During your Appointment
- Answer any questions the provider has as accurately and honestly as possible.
- Review your list of questions with the provider.
- Ask any questions that may come up during your visit.
- Be sure to write down or ask for written instructions to help understand the provider’s care instructions.
After your Appointment
- Make sure you receive your prescription and understand the medication instructions.
- Checkout at the front desk and schedule your next appointment if needed.
- We hope these few tips help you get the most out of your first and all future appointments!