What to Expect at Your First Visit

Before You Leave Your House:

1. Review the directions! GPS is unfortunately not reliable for our office.
2. Remember to bring all the paperwork requested on the New Patient Checklist.
3. Please bring all bottles of medications, supplements, herbals, etc.
   
   

When You Arrive:

If you arrive early, I may still be with another patient or on a phone call. I do not have a receptionist, but look for a sign on the reception counter that points to a doorbell. You can ring the doorbell to let me know you have arrived, then make yourself comfortable in the waiting room. I will come out to greet you at your scheduled appointment time. If you are ever kept waiting over 5 minutes, please ring the bell again.

“Getting To Know You”:

Our first visit will be scheduled for 90 minutes. During this time, I like to focus on getting to know you as a whole person and in the context of your family. We will review your medical and family history forms, get a sense of your concerns and goals, review recommendations for preventive services (like vaccines & mammograms) and complete a physical exam. At the end of the visit, we decide together if there are any labs or tests that need to be ordered.

Preparing the Plan:

After the visit, I spend some time behind the scenes researching any unresolved questions, reviewing your information, and putting together a plan. The plan is actually a menu of options for you to consider and refer to in the future.

Finalizing Action Steps:

In approximately 1 week, I will email you with your customized menu, and we review it together at a follow-up office or phone visit. This gives us a chance to reflect on your options, address any remaining questions, and choose which options or actions are best at this time. Not everyone needs this extra follow-up step, but even healthy individuals often appreciate a plan focused on wellness and behavior change. Future follow-up appointments will be scheduled as needed depending on your situation.

Be aware, for most patients with complex or chronic illness it will take a few visits before our plan for healing is solidified.