MAKING AN APPOINTMENT TO THE DOCTOR

  • When you call for an appointment, there is often a phone menu. Usually, if you push 0, the call will go to a person you can talk to.
  • Americans seem very direct and in a hurry. They do not mean to be rude. They are just trying to get a lot done in a short time. So do not be afraid to talk to them or ask them to repeat a question if you did not understand.
  • If you cannot keep your appointment, call the day before to cancel or you might have to pay for the appointment you did not go to.

At the appointment:

  • Show up early for your appointment, 15 minutes ahead of time.
  • Bring an adult with you who is comfortable speaking English
  • The nurse and doctor will ask direct and personal questions so they understand your health problem. You can feel safe in answering the questions.
  • When you receive a bill from the doctor’s office, you are expected to pay it.
  • Be sure to make payment arrangements for the amount you can afford. Make your payments on time.