One of the most important goals of the first visit is to learn of your concerns and special needs. We will ask you to complete a questionnaire which focuses on your recent diagnosis, health history, and lifestyle. If time permits we would like to mail the form to you in advance so that you can bring it to your first interview. It is most helpful if you can bring actual copies of prior medical evaluations, blood tests, imaging studies, operative reports, and pathology results. We will have usually received a phone call or other information from your referring physician which will help us to focus on the problem at hand. We welcome you to bring as much of this information as possible to the first visit.
Your first visit will involve information gathering and a physical examination. If necessary, arrangements will be made for any necessary testing or evaluation by other consultants. A treatment plan will be formulated with you based on your needs and preferences including a discussion of alternatives, and anticipated and potentially unanticipated outcomes.
It is often helpful to have someone come with you. They may think of questions or raise concerns which you may omit because of the stress or emotional content of an initial consultation for a serious condition. An extra pair of ears may help you to keep track of important details. Going over this information after the consultation may help you to put information in perspective and provide an opportunity to identify any questions or concerns which you may want to address with Dr. Jolles.