Your First Visit
New Patient Information
Coming to see a urologist for the first time can feel like a lot, particularly when the reason you're coming isn't something you enjoy talking about. This page covers what to bring, what will happen while you're here, and what you can do in advance to make the visit go quickly. If anything below isn't clear, call us at (281) 290-9800 — our staff would rather answer a question beforehand than have you arrive unsure.
Before You Arrive
What to Bring to Your First Visit
Having these ready saves time at check-in and lets your physician spend the visit on your actual concern rather than on paperwork.
Photo ID
Driver's license or passport
Insurance card
Front and back.
Referral authorization
If required by your insurance plan
List of your current medications
Including dosages
Completed new patient forms
Received upon scheduling appointment
Medical records or Test results
Related to your urologic condition
A Few Practical Notes
How to Prepare
Come with a comfortably full bladder.
A urine sample is part of most urologic evaluations. If you can't hold it, that's fine — tell the front desk when you arrive.
If you've had imaging, bring them.
A CT or ultrasound report is useful, but the images themselves are better. Most facilities will provide them on a disc or through a patient portal link.
If you'd prefer a chaperone present.
Just ask. It's a routine request and never a problem. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible.
Se habla español.
Let us know when you schedule if you'd prefer your visit conducted in Spanish.
What Happens While You're Here
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Most first visits take under an hour from check-in to checkout, though appointments involving in-office testing can run longer.
Check-In (15 minutes)
Our front desk team will verify your insurance, collect your co-pay, and review your completed forms.
Medical History Review
A medical assistant will review your health history, current medications, and the reason for your visit.
Physician Consultation
Your urologist will conduct a thorough examination, discuss your symptoms, and review any prior test results. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns.
Diagnostic Testing
(if needed)
Some initial tests — such as urinalysis or a bladder scan may be performed during your visit — may be performed during your first visit. Being able to do these in-office often means leaving with answers rather than scheduling a second trip.
Treatment Plan
Your urologist will explain the diagnosis, recommended treatment options, and next steps. You'll leave with a clear understanding of your plan of care.
Insurance & Payment
Insurance and Billing
We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare. Because coverage varies considerably between plans, we recommend verifying your benefits before your visit — or calling our office and letting our staff check for you.
Co-pays are collected at check-in. If your plan has a deductible that hasn't been met, you may be responsible for the visit cost, and our staff can give you an estimate in advance if you ask.
Some insurance plans require a referral from your primary care physician before they'll cover a specialist visit. HMO and certain Medicare Advantage plans typically do; PPO plans typically don't. Check the back of your insurance card or call us and we'll help you sort it out.
Co-pays are collected at check-in. If your plan has a deductible that hasn't been met, you may be responsible for the visit cost, and our staff can give you an estimate in advance if you ask.
Some insurance plans require a referral from your primary care physician before they'll cover a specialist visit. HMO and certain Medicare Advantage plans typically do; PPO plans typically don't. Check the back of your insurance card or call us and we'll help you sort it out.
Scheduling
Appointments and Cancellations
We offer appointments five days a week, so if your concern is urgent, call rather than waiting for the next available online slot.
If you need to reschedule or cancel, please give us as much notice as you can — it lets us offer that time to another patient who needs it.
If you need to reschedule or cancel, please give us as much notice as you can — it lets us offer that time to another patient who needs it.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually no — check your insurance plan.
We accept self-referred patients, but HMO and some Medicare Advantage plans require a referral for coverage. Call the number on your insurance card, or call our office and our staff will verify it for you.
Fifteen minutes early.
This gives your doctor flexibility to see you and other patients on time.
Usually under an hour.
Most first appointments run from check-in through your treatment plan in under an hour. Visits involving in-office testing such as ultrasound or cystoscopy may take longer.
Often yes — we test in-office.
Urinalysis and bladder scan can frequently be performed during your first visit. Being able to do these on-site often means you leave with a diagnosis rather than a second appointment.
Yes — and it's often a good idea.
A second set of ears helps, particularly if you're expecting to discuss test results or treatment options. A chaperone is also available for any part of your examination if you'd prefer one.
Complete the release form well in advance.
Completing the Authorization for Release of Medical Records ahead of your visit gives us time to obtain your records before you arrive. Otherwise, bring copies with you.
Ready to schedule?
Schedule an appointment.
Call us and we'll find the soonest appointment, at whichever of our three offices is closest to you.
