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.

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 ensure proper health screenings are performed, and help you meet your long-term health goals and needs. Over time, this relationship can translate into continued health and enhanced quality of life.

As family physicians, can you serve as primary care providers for children as well as adults?

Yes, our family physicians are board certified in Family Medicine, and are qualified to care for all patients, regardless of age, sex, organ system or type of problem, be it biological, behavioral or social.

What types of services do you provide?

We are proud to be a primary care provider of medical services for you and your entire family. Services include, but are not limited to: Newborn and child care, including immunizations, geriatric care, women's care, including gynecological exams and contraception, dermatologic care, minor fracture and minor surgical care.

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.

How can I find out when I need to schedule my next physical exam?

In general, yearly physical exams are recommended for everyone from all school aged children to adults. Your child's physician will recommend a specific well child visit intervals for infants and toddlers. You may call the office during the office hours to determine if you're due for a physical. Our operators will be able to let you know when your next physical is recommended.

In order to see a specialist, do I need to be seen by my primary care physician first?

Most of the time, yes. Our providers recommend that you first make an appointment with them to determine if the referral is necessary, as your primary care physician can care for many of the problems. By evaluating your condition first, your physician can determine the best referral source for your condition if a referral is deemed necessary.

What is the best way to get my medications refilled?

Refill requests can be sent for your physician's approval by calling your pharmacy. Please allow two business days for these requests to be processed. However, this is best done at least one week before your medicine runs out, as you may be requested to be seen before refill is approved so your doctor can properly evaluate your condition and perform necessary blood work for monitoring.
Note: Routine medication refills cannot be processed during the evening, weekend and holiday urgent care hours.

How will I be notified of lab and study results?

When the test results are reviewed by your provider, you will be contacted by the phone if there is a problem or they need to be addressed urgently. Otherwise, you will receive a letter in the mail within two weeks, please contact us if you have not been notified of the test results after two weeks.

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.

Will my primary care physician care for me if I am in the hospital?

Our providers work with the Inpatient Physicians of Forsyth (IPOF), a team of very qualified hospital specialists at Forsyth Medical Center. IPOF is a multi-specialty team of physicians who admits and cares for our patients during their hospital stay. Our providers are in communication with the inpatient physicians regarding treatment plans and questions regarding care and discharge. We have complete trust and confidence in the expertise and ability of these physicians to dispense responsive, quality care to our patients throughout their hospital visit.

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.