For your convenience, you will be seen by appointment. Unfortunately, patients do not become ill on schedule, something is found in another patient that requires more time than allotted, and emergencies occur which can cause delays. I know, however, that your time is as valuable as mine, and I will constantly strive to keep my appointment schedule. If we are off schedule, you should ask the receptionist for another appointment. Please do not ask that other members of the family be worked in at the time of your scheduled appointment. This is unfair to the patient with the next appointment. I must spend adequate time with each patient to properly diagnose and prescribe for him.
When calling the office for an appointment, the receptionist will ask you the reason for your visit. By knowing what symptoms you have, she will best determine how much time is needed for you. Therefore, as an example, if you are calling about an illness, try to take your temperature before calling so you can tell the receptionist. It would be helpful to indicate your chart number as well when calling for an appointment.
For urgent appointments, you should call at 8:15 or as early in the day as possible. Should a situation arise when immediate treatment is necessary, every effort will be made to work you in at the earliest possible time. Priority is given and time reserved daily for established patients and their families.
Appointments are made only four weeks in advance. Routine elective appointments should be made 1-2 weeks in advance. This will enable you to select a convenient time. The best time to call for routine appointments is between 9 am and 12:00 noon.
School and Camp Physicals. Appointments should be made beginning in May for the following school year. Please have your child bring tennis shoes, as he or she may be required to run in place.
Adult Physical Exams. Appointments will be scheduled by medical priority. Request appointments 60-90 days in advance, and you will be telephoned from the waiting list as the schedule is completed. Routine physical exams are sometimes delayed during seasons of epidemic illness.
House Calls. Because limited evaluation can be done at home, the home visit is rarely optimal for modern treatment of acute illness and may delay necessary care. For elderly patients who have chronic illness and disability, where transportation to the office or hospital is a painful process, house calls will be scheduled.
Cancellation of Appointments. If you cannot keep an appointment, 24 hours notice should be given to this office. This courtesy on your part makes it possible to give and appointment to another person who is ill. You might be charged for scheduled time if you abuse this policy.