What should I bring to my appointment?
We suggest you bring films from any previous MRI, CAT Scans, DVDs or CDs, as well as results from any tests ordered by your primary care physician or neurologist. Before your appointment, please complete each patient form thoroughly. You may have received these forms by mail or they are available online to print out. Also be sure to bring your driver’s license or a state-issued ID, and all insurance cards, as well as any referral forms. If you are seeing us about an injury sustained in an automobile accident or on the job, prior authorization will be obtained by our practice from your insurance carrier.
How can I make the most of my appointment?
We suggest you bring a list of prepared questions with you to your appointment. It is not unusual to be a little nervous when seeing a new physician, and writing down your questions will help you remember everything you want to ask the doctor. After your appointment, if you have further questions, write them down for your next appointment. If you’d like an answer before that, contact the office in which you were seen and leave a message for the doctor.
What if the doctor determines that I need surgery?
Don’t worry. Our practice employs a surgical scheduler who will make all the necessary arrangements with the hospital and contact your insurance carrier for the necessary authorization.
Pre-surgical instructions relating to medications and food will be given or sent to you. A member of our staff will go over these with you prior to your surgery and answer any questions you may have.
When you are discharged from the hospital the nursing staff will instruct you to schedule a follow-up appointment with your neurosurgeon (usually within two to three weeks after you leave the hospital).
If you have an emergency during regular business hours, call the office where you were seen. After hours, call our office at (877) 65-SPINE and leave a message with our 24-hour answering service.