What to Expect at a Specialist Appointment?

Having chronic pain or a chronic illness often means needing to see several specialists. Knowing what to expect at a specialist appointment might be difficult, especially with a new diagnosis or when going to a new practice. The following is a guide to what to expect at most specialist appointments.

Paperwork

At any appointment with a new provider, paperwork can be expected. The office will ask questions about the client’s identity, contact information, insurance, and medical history. A medical history questionnaire will likely ask for an individual’s current diagnoses, medications, surgical history, and family medical history. Some of this information may be confirmed during the appointment itself. A specialist may also request that the individual transfer previous medical records or imaging reports.

Medical History

At the beginning of the appointment, a specialist will probably ask the individual about their personal and family medical history. This can help the doctor better understand how to treat them and give them a fuller picture of the individual’s situation.

Physical Examination

For in-person appointments, a specialist will want to examine the individual physically. This typically helps the doctor better understand the person's signs, symptoms, and physical condition.

End of Appointment

It is typical for the specialist and individual to discuss the next steps at the end of the appointment. If a diagnosis was made during the appointment, a treatment plan may be created, including medication, lifestyle changes, or other treatments. If no firm diagnosis was made or the doctor wants to confirm or rule out certain conditions, they may arrange for the individual to undergo testing.

Tests

• Laboratory Tests
  Some specialists will want to run laboratory tests or “labs” immediately. This includes blood, urine, fecal, or other tests requiring a medical laboratory.
• Imaging Tests
  Some specialists may want to order imaging tests, such as CT scans, X-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds, and more.
• Other Testing
  A specialist may want to order various types of testing for an individual, such as electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyography (EMG), vision, hearing, or tests.