Booking, what to bring, check-in forms, the visit itself, and what happens after.
A first visit with a new doctor is often called a new patient visit or an annual physical. Here is what happens.
Booking
1
Call the office or use its online booking. Say: "I'm a new patient. I'd like to book a new patient visit, a physical."
2
Give your name as on your passport, your date of birth, phone number and insurance details.
3
Ask: "Is there a copay?" and "Do I need to fill in forms before the visit?"
4
Many offices use a patient portal: a website or app where you fill in forms, see results and send messages. Create your account before the visit.
What to bring
Your insurance card and a photo ID (passport or driver's license).
A list of your medicines with doses, including vitamins and herbal products.
Your medical records and vaccination record from home, translated into English if possible.
Your questions, written down.
A way to pay the copay. Most offices take cards.
Check-in
1
Arrive 15 minutes early. Late patients are often asked to rebook.
2
The front desk scans your ID and insurance card and asks you to pay the copay.
3
You fill in or confirm forms: health history, family history, medicines, allergies, emergency contact.
4
You sign a privacy notice. By federal law, your health information is private. Doctors cannot share it with your employer or school without your permission.
5
If you need an interpreter, ask now. It is free (see the guide on interpreters).
The visit
1
A medical assistant takes your weight, height, blood pressure and temperature.
2
The doctor or nurse practitioner asks questions and examines you. Answer honestly about smoking, alcohol, sex and mental health. It is confidential and normal to ask.
3
They may order blood tests. Ask where to go. Many labs are separate from the office, and you should use an in-network lab.
4
Ask before you leave: "What should I do next?" and "When will I get results?"
After the visit
Results usually appear in the patient portal.
An EOB from your insurer arrives a few weeks later, then a bill if you owe more.
A yearly preventive visit is usually covered at $0 in network. But if you also discuss a new problem, the office may bill part of the visit as a regular visit. Ask if you are unsure.
Common mistakes
Not canceling. Many offices charge a no-show fee if you do not cancel 24 hours ahead.
Leaving without understanding the plan. It is fine to say: "Can you write that down for me?"