Your First Urology Appointment: What to Expect
If your primary care physician has referred you to a urologist, it means he or she suspects you have a medical condition that involves your urinary tract or reproductive system. It can sometimes be helpful to call the urology office ahead of your appointment to ask if there is anything you’ll need to bring, such as your current medications and prior imaging studies, if applicable.
Paperwork
You can expect your first urology appointment to proceed similarly to any other medical appointment, which typically involves filling out paperwork when you arrive at the office. You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire, depending on the reason for your visit. For example, men who visit a urology office because of prostate issues may be asked to complete a symptom score to assess the severity of their prostate condition. Likewise, urologists often utilize questionnaires for incontinence and infertility.
Urine Sample
It’s advisable to drink some water before your appointment since you’ll be asked to provide a urine sample. If you need to relieve yourself immediately upon arriving at the office, inform the receptionist that you’re ready to provide a urine sample before filling out any paperwork.
Medical History
After you’ve been escorted to an exam room, you’ll be asked questions about your medical history. Be sure to list any medications you take, along with their dosages. Inform the provider of your symptoms, when you noticed them, and how severe they are.
Physical Examination
You can expect to undergo a physical exam, including a complete genital exam. This may include a prostate assessment for men and a pelvic exam for women.
Diagnostic Tests
The urologist may request that you undergo certain tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or computed tomography (CT) scan. Urologists also commonly rely on sonography.
Treatment Recommendations
The urologist will help you understand your condition and offer recommendations for your treatment. This may include medical management or surgery. When you leave the office, you should be fully informed of your treatment options, and their benefits and potential risks.
If you have any questions about your upcoming appointment at Urology Associates, P.C., give us a call at 888-245-0702. We invite new patients to visit our website to read our patients’ rights and responsibilities policies.