Making an Appointment
On your first visit, we will begin a permanent record. Please bring any medications you are taking, so that we may accurately determine the dosage and frequency. We will ask you to complete a medical history and registration form. Please bring your insurance card and try to arrive at least thirty minutes early for your first visit. If you have been under the care of another doctor, we may ask your permission to transfer some of your records.
We have three appointment categories that take up varying amounts of time:
- Annual Exams or New Patient Visits – Plan on spending one hour including check-in time, filling out forms, and the actual physician visit
- Follow-up Exams – Thirty minutes
- Sick Visits- Varies depending on the illness, but plan on at least thirty minutes
Canceling an Appointment
Our appointments are confirmed by an automated service. Please listen carefully and follow the prompts to either confirm or cancel your appointment. If you later decide that you are unable to keep your appointment or you are going to be late, please call your physician’s office as soon as possible. This courtesy allows us to be of service to other patients.
Emergency Care
If you have an urgent problem, you may call your physician’s office to schedule an appointment. However, if you feel it is a life threatening emergency, call 911. Do not delay by calling the doctor’s office first.
Prescription Refills
Our preferred method for refilling prescriptions is to have your pharmacist call our office with your name and the prescription you need to be refilled. Because we do not have access to your medical records at night or on weekends, we are unable to refill prescriptions during those times.
Confidentiality
At BSW Family Medicine - Lake Ridge, we have a strict patient confidentiality policy. Your medical record is strictly private and will not be shared with your employer, friends, or relatives without your written permission.