New Patient Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a urologist?

A urologist is a physician who specializes in issues involving the male and female urinary tract and the male reproductive organs.

The male and female urinary tract include the kidney, ureters, bladder and urethra – as well as the related organs – the testes, prostate, penis, epididymis, seminal vesicles, and associated glands.

2. What should I bring with me when I come for a scheduled appointment?

• Medicare or insurance information
• A referral from your general practitioner or family doctor
• All relevant X-ray images and test results from your primary care doctor or referring physician
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• A list of any known drug allergies and the symptoms you experience from taking these medicines
• Other operation reports if you’ve had surgery elsewhere

3. Are my medical records kept private and confidential?

Your medical information is handled with the utmost care for your privacy. We will not release the contents of your medical file without your consent. Our medical professionals are bound by strict confidentiality requirements as a condition of employment regarding your medical records.

4. Do I need a referral to make an appointment?

Most medical specialists will only accept referred patients to ensure you are seeing the specialist that is appropriate for your condition. Additionally, Medicare covers more specialist services if you have been referred.

5. How can my family doctor help me obtain specialist medical care?

Before seeing any medical specialist, it’s important to talk to your primary care doctor to discuss your condition and receive advice on whether or not specialist care is the appropriate choice.

If specialist care is necessary, your primary care doctor can help you choose the one best suited for your needs. The primary care doctor can also provide the specialist with relevant information about your health.

Communication with the specialist will allow your primary care physician to better care for you before and after the specialist treatment.

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