Appointment Information

Appointment Info

Visiting any physician can be an intimidating experience. Parents can lessen the stress and worry associated with their child’s doctor visit by taking steps to be sure that you have all the information needed for the appointment. Never feel embarrassed or shy about asking for clarification about something the provider says. If the provider asks questions that may seem embarrassing or overly personal to you or your child, remember that the information you provide allows your doctor to better establish a diagnosis or to determine what treatment is most appropriate. Be honest and don’t withhold information from the doctor. Utilize the office personnel, medical assistants, and nurses as they can be additional resources for information. Do not hesitate to ask them questions about your child’s healthcare or your concerns. Advanced preparation for your child’s doctor visit is a vital step towards becoming a partner in your child’s healthcare. Our physicians welcome your active participation in their care.



Appointment Tips

  • Schedule an appointment by calling 256.997.5900.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes early. We will update your information at each visit as needed.
  • Please call ahead if you are going to be late or unable to make your appointment time.
  • Late arrivals will be offered the next available appointment. While we will do our best to accommodate requests, the first-available appointment may or may not be on the day the appointment was missed.
  • Whenever possible, please give 24 hours notice if you cannot make your appointment.



During the Visit

  • Arrive a few minutes early and be prepared to update any necessary information.
  • Prepare for a short to moderate wait time in the reception room by bringing a book or a magazine.
  • Listen to the doctor’s questions and answer them as accurately and honestly as possible.
  • Maintain a healthcare folder that includes any educational materials, healthcare information, and appointment information given to you at your child’s visit.
  • Review your list of questions with your doctor and make sure each is answered to your satisfaction.
  • Ask questions that may arise during the visit.
  • Write down or ask for written instructions to help you understand your child’s care plan.
  • Ask how you can educate yourself about your child’s healthcare needs.
  • Listen to your child. If they feel something is wrong, share your concerns with your doctor.



Completing Your Visit

  • Did the provider order new medications for your child, and, if so, did you understand how and when to take them?
  • Does your child have enough medication to last until the next visit?
  • Make sure you have a return visit scheduled, if needed.
  • Make certain you have the written prescriptions or confirm the pharmacy for electronic prescriptions before you leave.
  • Check out at the front desk before leaving.
  • With a little preparation, by asking the right questions and by following a few simple guidelines, you and your child will get the most from each visit to your doctor.



Before the Appointment

Before the appointment, write down a list of things you need to tell the doctor. Note any concerns or questions you may have. Also, write down the names and dosages of any medication your child may be taking, including over the counter medications. It is very important to take this list with you to your child’s appointment – don’t count on remembering everything.

  • If it is your first visit, request medical records from your previous doctor. We can assist you with this in our office, if needed.
  • Keep a health care diary and take it to the visit. For example; changes in health status, physical observations, specific complaints or concerns and abnormal side effects or symptoms since the last visit.
  • Prepare a list of your child’s medications (including over the counter), dosages, and drug allergies. It is very important to take this list with you to your child’s appointment – don’t count on remembering everything.
  • Check current medications to make sure refills are available or you should be prepared to ask the doctor for medication refills.
  • Prepare and maintain a list of immunizations your child has had in the past. We can assist you with this in our office, if needed.
  • Consider the clothing your child will wear to the appointment. For example, if your child is scheduled to have a check-up or a sports physical, have them wear clothing easily removed if they are scheduled for lab to have them wear a short sleeve shirt or a shirt with sleeves that can be easily pushed up.
  • If the patient has medical insurance, be sure to bring your card(s) to your appointment.