FIRST CONSULTATION
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
Generally at your first appointment, you will have a consultation with a physician who specializes in your condition and the corresponding treatments. Prior to the appointment, your relevant medical records will be requested and reviewed by the consulting physician.
Upon arrival at your doctor's office, you will check in with the front desk receptionist. She will have you fill out all of the necessary new patient paperwork, scan your OHIP card, and input the data into our computer system. She will then bring you to one of the assessment rooms.
The physician will come into the room and gather more information from you about your symptoms and your medical history. The physician will likely do an examination based upon your symptoms. The physical examination will usually include an abdominal exam and a pelvic exam.
This appointment generally lasts from 15 to 40 minutes. During this appointment, appropriate treatment options will be suggested and explained. Topics discussed may include medical treatment, specific procedures and management of follow-up care. If further testing is needed, the physician will provide requisitions and help arrange lab work or diagnostic imaging (like ultrasound).
If it a surgical procedure is necessary, the physician will review the procedure with you and discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure. This may require another appointment, closer to the expected date of surgery.
Helpful Hints for Your First Appointment
1. Provide the physician with a full and accurate history. This will help the physician understand your symptoms and determine a diagnosis. It will also help to form an individualized treatment plan.
2. Do not cancel your appointment if you are on your period. Many women are worried about going to see a gynecologist while on the period. Please do not cancel your appointment. If you are concerned about a physical examination, you can discuss this with your doctor and perhaps book a second appointment for a physical exam.
3. Bring an updated list of all medications you are on. This is very helpful to determine if certain treatment medications are right for you and will help to prepare you for surgery.
4. Bring a copy of all previous surgical reports and relevant tests. This will help the physician review all your previous procedures to determine the appropriate treatment course for you.