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| New Patient |
During the initial appointment a physical examination will be performed by the physician. Allergy tests/procedures could be ordered at the time of the visit including a breathing test if asthma is suspected. After the testing is performed you will visit with the physician to discuss the results. The initial appointment will take approximately two hours. Skin testing is the preferred form of testing. Skin tests are generally tolerated by all ages and the discomfort level is minimal (it is not considered painful by most patients), if there is a reaction to the allergen the site could look similar to an ant bite (itchy, red, and possibly raised up). The test is performed by gently pricking the skin with a small device on the forearms of adults and older children and on the back for young children. The test areas wheal (raised bump) and Erythema (redness) are measured after 15 minutes. In order to insure the accuracy of testing we ask that Antihistamines and certain other medications be stopped for 3-7 days before your appointment. If you have a question about a medication you are taking please call, our staff is available to assist you. (please see the attached list of medications) This is the only preparation needed prior to the appointment. There is another test called RAST test (blood test). The test is generally not done since the test is more expensive and is not as sensitive as the skin test. If the patient is a child, a parent or legal custodian must accompany the patient. If the parent is unable to accompany the patient a written and signed release must be brought with the patient and given to the office staff. Yes, most insurance plans require referrals, please check your plan by calling the insurance company’s customer service department. The phone number is located on your insurance card. Any required referrals We request a referral for children age four and under prior to scheduling their appointment. Children of this age should be under the care of a primary care physician or pediatrician. Insurance companies that require referrals may deny all charges without a referral or they may pay the charges at a reduced rate leaving you with a larger responsbility for payment of the charges. We recommend you contact the insurance company for details or the human resources department at your place of employment.. If you are unable to keep the appointment please notify our office 3 days prior to the visit. This will give us the opportunity to schedule another patient and allow the other patient enough time to stop medications for any needed testing. Yes, insurance claims are filed as a courtesy to the patient and usually filed daily. To insure accuracy of claim filings bring your current insurance card every time you come to the office and be prepared to present the card to the receptionist. Inaccurate insurance information will cause the claim to be rejected and could cause the patient to have to pay for the entire visit or procedure. |
 | © 2009 Allergy & Asthma Center, PA |