Patient Information

Tips for the First Visit

What Should I Wear?

Wear something comfortable and look ahead to your examination. Short or loose sleeves are best for a hand or elbow problem. Loose clothing can be handy to visualize a shoulder or neck problem. Avoid multiple layers, as you may have to change into an examination gown. Most people are more comfortable in their own clothes. For a back exam a loose-fitting shirt (only one layer) works well. For a hip or knee problem, consider shorts. Shoes and socks often have to come off to check reflexes and pulses. Long underwear, pantyhose and long socks are sometimes a problem. Even in an exam gown (you know, the open-air kind that is ventilated in the back) you will be able to keep on your underwear and bra. Some people like to bring a jogging outfit, shorts and top – that way they are set for anything.

How Much Time is Needed for a First Visit?

Every effort is made to keep on schedule. Yet, I am not a really fast doctor. I like to listen to your needs and sometimes I talk a bit too. Only rarely will one visit completely solve a problem. More often than not at the first visit a problem is identified, evaluated and tests are ordered. During subsequent visits, we will discuss the test results and actions needed to cure the problem.

While some problems are quicker than others, allow a minimum of 45 minutes for an initial visit. It could take longer. Back and neck complaints take longer than a finger or a knee. Often there are forms to fill out so allow an extra 10-15 minutes for that. X-rays take time too, so if x-rays will be needed it will add 15-45 minutes to your time. Often patients come a bit early to get the x-ray first so the consultation goes smoothly and without interruption.

Patients are seen in the scheduled order. Occasionally changes will be made to minimize waiting time if a delay is identified. Not all scheduling and time problems are under control of the doctor or the staff. Listening and solving problems takes time. Sometimes what starts out as a simple problem gets more involved and requires more time. Discussions of surgical options take time also. If it gets a bit much you can sometimes come back on another day, and some arrangements can be finished on the phone.

What Should I Bring?

For a successful doctor visit, bring:

Your Insurance Cards
We will make a copy to keep the billing in order. Sometimes patients have more than one coverage, such as Medicare and a secondary supplemental insurance. Let us know about all of your coverage plans.

Your Workers’ Comp Information
(if your problem is work-related)
Both your employer and the company’s insurance carrier will require reports. We will need your:

• Employer’s name
• Address and zip code
• Name of a contact person
• Phone and fax numbers
• The address, phone and fax of the Workers’ Comp Insurance carrier and your claim number (this is on the Patient Information Form)
• Date of injury

If reports are expected to go to another party please provide name address, zip, phone and fax. You will be asked to sign a release to send a report or part of your medical record.

Your List of Medications and Any Allergies
Bring your medication list.

Your X-rays and Tests
Hand carry your x-rays, MRI’s, CT’s, EMG’s or other test results from other hospitals or doctors so we can see what has been previously done. Please note that the x-rays you bring yourself will certainly arrive with you. Hospitals cannot be relied upon to send x-rays on your behalf.

What you say is the best record of your problem. Copies of medical records are usually not required. Sometimes an operative note is helpful to explain details of what has been done in the past.

Your Braces and Supports
If you wear a brace or other supportive device you may wish to show it to Dr. Yuska.

Your Parent or Guardian
Dr. Yuska will not see anyone under age 18 without a parent. Sometimes an older person will have a guardian to make health decisions; if so the guardian should attend so that the right decisions will be made.

A Translator, If Needed
There are times when someone has to explain a symptom or a treatment. Someone you trust, who knows how you feel and can explain your needs and thoughts is the best person to accompany you if there may be a language difficulty. Dr. Yuska only speaks English. He cannot do justice to your problem in any other language.

Also, Please Leave Children with a Relative or Friend
Children are welcome as patients, however we do not have waiting facilities for children during your visit. Young ones tire out quickly and may not allow us to concentrate on your problem. 

Subsequent Visits

Re-visits are usually quicker. Allow extra time if there is consideration of surgery, work issues or lots of test results. 

Before Surgery

• Check with your insurance carrier on your coverage. 
• You will need a physical from your doctor and perhaps some blood tests.
• You may need crutches or therapy instructions.
• You will be contacted by the hospital to make final arrangements on where and when to arrive.
• You may not eat or drink anything after midnight!
• Ask about your medications. 
• You will need to be driven home and accompanied by someone.

Medication Renewals

You pharmacist may call to renew a prescription when needed. You may request a renewal by mail, e-mail or phone. Please include:

• Patient name
• The name of the drug
• The name and phone number for the pharmacy

The request will be reviewed by the doctor and may be changed to fit a new situation. It is our policy not to write long-term medications, which are best monitored by your regular medical doctor. Narcotics and controlled substance medications will not be given via telephone except on rare occasion to established patients only.

Insurance and Disability Forms

We will fill out insurance, disability and other forms when needed. We ask that you fill out your part completely and provide the correct address and dates. We will do our part. There may be a charge for this service or for copies of records.

Page Updated: 12/16/2003