Dear Eggsperts — My best friend recommended I schedule an appointment with her doctor’s office, but when I called I was so confused by some of the questions the receptionist was asking that I hung up! When I muster up the nerve to call back, what should I say? Is there a specific kind of appointment I need to ask for? Is there anything I should do prior to arriving? Anything I need to bring? — Inquisitive in Indiana
Dear Inquisitive in Indiana—I smiled when I read your post, because I can see myself doing exactly the same thing. With a squirm and a solid, “Ahhhhh!” I’d have hung up too. So, yes, dialing the phone number and being asked so many questions right off the bat can certainly be nerve racking.
It’s also worth mentioning that many practices have online patient portals which will allow you to request an appointment, schedule an appointment, download or complete your new patient history forms and the like without ever making a call. Problem solved. But, if you that’s not a total solution for you, let’s talk about prepping for the call before you dial again. (wink, wink).
- For starters: Before you call, make sure to have your health insurance card or employer benefits card handy. You may also want to pull up your local neighborhood pharmacy on your phone in the event they ask you for that information. Many practices will want to collect as much information from you as possible so that they can be respectful of your time with the physician when you are in the office.
- It’s also worth asking if you have your day planner handy and know that your partner is available as well. Note: if you are a hopeful single-parent-by-choice, let me commend you. Having a partner is not a prerequisite in your pursuit of creating a family. You may prefer to invite a close friend or family member to join you instead.
- Next: Take a deep breath and dial. Know that the staff member on the other end of the call may sound rushed or uninterested, but know that they are there to help you. Remember, they choose to come to work everyday to help patients just like you. But, like all of us at times, work can be stressful. If this individual’s attitude to your calling doesn’t match your expectations for the kind of care you are looking for, consider calling another doctor’s office in your area.
Likely the first question that will need to be answered is your reason for calling. Just let the receptionist know that you are a new patient and are needing to be evaluated for infertility. If this is a multiple physician practice, you may want to specify which doctor you are wanting to see. You may be asked if you prefer a male or female doctor. Any blood work or health records you feel to be important for the physician to review prior to your arrival should be emailed, faxed or requested to be sent to the office prior to your appointment. You will want to bring a copy of these also in the event of a transmission error.
Good luck, Inquisitive in Indiana. You are going to do great! Circle back to us after you’ve scheduled and we will walk you through what to expect for the first visit. As always, you can ask us your questions at questions@askaneggspert.com.
We hope we met your Eggspectations–An Eggspert
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Disclaimer: All of the comments on this page are for basic information only. They are based on the opinions and expertise of the authors and are not meant to provide a substitute for medical care or specific treatment recommendations. Each person is unique and requires individualized diagnosis and treatment plans. Any specific questions should be directed to your personal healthcare provider.