Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Providing helpful information to first-time visitors and current patients of our practice.

What types of health insurance plans do you accept?

For your convenience, we file most types of insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. For a complete list of insurance companies and accepted plans, visit our Billing and Insurance page.

What do I need to bring with me to my appointment?

Insurance card, payment and a list of current prescriptions, as well as over-the-counter medications, any films and reports of X-rays, MRIs or CT scans that you had recently, if necessary.

What are some examples of emergency medical situations?

An emergency generally involves an illness that is currently or potentially life threatening. Although this is not a complete list, here are examples of true emergency situations: chest pain, stroke symptoms, trouble breathing, sudden, severe pain, such as a headache or stomachache, head or back injuries, bleeding or vomiting that won't stop, loss of consciousness, poisoning, major burns and cuts, choking, an obviously crooked extremity after a fall or accident. Individuals experiencing any of these conditions should go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

What are advance directives?

Novant Medical Group practices support a patient's rights to make decisions about their medical care and treatment, especially in situations where they cannot make their wishes known. We have information available about advance directives, living wills and durable power of attorney. Ask our receptionist for copies of these important documents.

How do I know if my baby has jaundice?

You should stay alert of changes in your newborn's skin color or the coloring in the whites of the eyes. A simple way to test for jaundice is to press gently with your fingertip on the tip of your baby's nose or forehead. If the skin appears to be white, there is no jaundice. If you see a yellowish color, call our office and schedule an appointment to see a pediatrician. One of our doctors can see if significant jaundice is present.

What are the symptoms of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?

RSV infects almost all children at least once before they are two years old. Most of the time, this virus only causes minor cold-like symptoms, such as runny nose, coughing and a low-grade fever. However, for some babies, RSV can be more dangerous and produce more serious signs of infection, including difficult or rapid breathing, wheezing, irritability or restlessness and poor appetite.

How can I tell if my child has Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is characterized by three behavior symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is normal for all children to show some of these problems from time to time. However, if your child is having difficulty learning in school, completing homework or playing with friends, you may want to discuss your child's behavioral problems with your pediatrician.

Who should get Hepatitis B vaccine and when?

Everyone 18 years of age and younger. Ideally, your child should receive his/her first shot at birth, the second between the ages of 2 - 4 months, and the third between 6 - 18 months. Children and teenagers who missed these shots when they were babies should catch up on the series as soon as they can.

Who should get Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine and when?

Children should get two doses of MMR vaccine: the first at 12 - 15 months and the second at 4 - 6 years. Children who did not get the second shot before starting school should get a shot during their pre-teen or teenage years.

What diseases does Haemophilus Influenzae B (Hib) vaccine prevent and when should my child be vaccinated?

Hib vaccine prevents your child from developing meningitis, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections caused by Hib bacteria. Usually, four shots are given: the first at 2 months of age, the second at 4 months, the third at 6 months, and the fourth between 12 - 18 months. One version of the vaccine; however, only requires three shots. Ask your child's pediatrician for more information on the immunization schedule and dosage requirements for Hib vaccine.

Why is having a primary care physician so important?

Choosing a primary care doctor is a great way to maintain exceptional health throughout the course of your life. In addition to treating acute illnesses, your primary care physician can partner with you to meet your long-term health goals and needs. Over time, this relationship can translate into continued health and enhanced quality of life.

In order to see a specialist, do I need a referral from my primary care physician?

To determine whether you need a referral from us before seeing a medical specialist, view the terms of your insurance plan. Often, this information is listed on the insurance card or can be obtained by calling the insurance company. Our medical providers can refer you to a specialist if your health situation requires it or if your health insurance company requires a referral prior to visiting a specialist.

How long does it take to obtain an appointment?

Calling our office at the first sign of illness helps to ensure that you receive an appointment time sooner rather than later. Normally, we are able to schedule same-day appointments for those requiring urgent care.

What phone number can I call if I have a billing question?

Billing questions can be directed to our billing representatives at 336-718-4820, weekdays from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

How do I have my medical records sent to another practice?

To release records to a specialist or another practice, we need your written permission. We have forms in the office available for that purpose. The process of transferring records requires approximately two weeks for completion.