GOALS OF YOUR FIRST VISIT

Simply stated, the goals of your first visit are to determine what is wrong with your body (diagnosis) and what can help you to get better (treatment). To achieve this, information is gathered through a series of questions, examination procedures and, when necessary, tests. This initial information gathering lays the foundation for management of your health problem. We consider this to be your most important visit, and accordingly, extra time is allotted with the doctor. Patients are asked to allow one hour for the first visit, which may be shorter or longer, depending on the nature of your problem and what is done by the doctors that day.

PAPERWORK

There are some simple forms that the patient completes prior to seeing the doctor. This includes questions about yourself, insurance, and your current problem and past medical history. This typically takes from 5 to 15 minutes for most patients to complete. If you plan to utilize your health insurance, please bring your insurance card with you.

CONSULTATION & HISTORY

The doctor will review your paperwork and then speak to you about your particular health problem. The doctor will typically lead with a series of questions but will also allow you to tell your 'story' in your own words. Review of related body systems as well as your pertinent medical history will also typically occur. We ask that all patients make a 'mental' review of their problem prior to the first visit. This includes details about how the problem started, what makes it better/worse and how your activities are affected.

EXAMINATION & TESTING

Physical examination immediately follows the history and typically includes palpation (feeling) the painful area, mobility/range of motion, posture, and assessment of positions that increase or relieve pain. Neurological and vascular examination or assessment of other systems may also be performed. Testing, such as x-ray, MRI, and CT scan, is not routinely done but may be necessary. The need for any additional testing will be discussed after the examination has been completed.

TREATMENT PLANNING

The doctor will discuss his/her conclusions with you once the history and examination has been completed, and a plan of action will be recommended. Treatment can usually begin immediately; especially in the case of acute problems. If further testing is planned, care recommendations may be deferred until these tests are completed.

REFERRAL

The doctor may determine that your problem warrants treatment or consultation with your primary care physician or another specialist. In this instance the doctor can make the appropriate referral and transfer clinical records as appropriate.