Patients who prepare for doctor’s visits are more likely to be satisfied with their experience. Doctors need a lot of information, which patients should be able to provide, to give them the best care possible and to have successful treatment.
Now that your appointment with a podiatrist is confirmed, it’s time to start preparing for it. This way, it doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience.
Here are some tips on how to be prepared for your first podiatry visit.
Fill Out the New Patient Form
Many podiatry clinics have these forms available to download online in order to help save time and speed up the check-in process during your visit. New patient forms usually ask for information such as your name, address, and insurance information. Another benefit of doing this beforehand is to avoid mistakes and fill them out at your own pace, without feeling rushed.
Bring Important Identification Cards and Documents
Do not forget to bring your government-issued identification card, your insurance cards, and copies of your medical records. You should obtain a copy of your medical records and make sure they are complete and correct, especially if you have a history of podiatric issues. Also, write down a list of current medications you are taking or take them with you to the clinic. The medications you are taking could provide useful information for podiatrists, as some conditions and treatments can affect foot and ankle health.
Provide All Details About Your Podiatric Concerns
There are many reasons why a patient would need to see a podiatrist. It could be heel pain, corns, and calluses, bunions, fungal infections, or an ankle injury. Give a detailed account of your foot or ankle problem, such as when the symptoms are worse, what eases them, whether walking and exercise are impacted, and when the problem started.
One helpful tip is to take the shoes that you frequently wear to the clinic. It could be your work shoes, athletic shoes, or everyday shoes. Your footwear can provide clues as to what may be causing your podiatric issue. During the visit, the podiatrist may assess your gait with and without your shoes.
If you want to make the best out of your first podiatry visit, do not hesitate to call the podiatry clinic and ask the staff how you can better prepare for it. They will be more than happy to answer your questions and make sure you are relaxed and comfortable ahead of your visit.
Podiatry Clinic in Naples, FL
At the Joint Replacement Institute, our podiatry team is headed by Dr. Cody Togher. We maintain a culture of compassion in our clinic. Dr. Togher is recognized not only for her expertise in treating the full range of podiatric issues, but also for her excellent bedside manner.
For superior podiatry services, schedule your appointment today. Call our clinic at
(239) 261-2663 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to offering you expert treatments to help get you back on your feet.