First Appointment
The first appointment at any health care office can be intimidating, especially if you do not know what to expect. Dr. Howard does not want anyone to feel uncomfortable in her office, therefore she has outlined what can be expected on the first day. She does ask that you arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time in order to complete all of the paperwork. If you would rather complete the paperwork at home and save time during your first appointment, you can download the forms from the links on this page. You may also stop in to pick up the paperwork prior to your first appointment.
If you do not already know what your insurance coverage is for chiropractic care, we will call your insurance company for verification of benefits during your first appointment. Verification of benefits does not guarantee payment or actual benefits of the policy, it is merely a guideline that the insurance company can provide over the telephone. Actual benefits are determined by the insurance company after the claims are filed.
First Visit Highlights: (plan 45-60 minutes)
- Paperwork
- Consultation
- Examination
- Brief Explanation of Findings
- Physiotherapeutic Modality (if indicated)
- Adjustment (if indicated)
- Home Instructions
After the first visit - next day: (plan 30 minutes)
- Report of Findings / Treatment Plan Information
- Review of chief complaint
- Therapy / Adjustment
- Home Instructions
Subsequent visits will not be nearly as lengthy as the first or even the second visit. These two visits take more time as more information is being shared between you and the doctor. There will be re-examinations at periodic intervals to monitor your progress and health. These are usually done about every 6-8 weeks.
We hope this information helps with any "first day jitters" that you may have. Of course, if you have questions prior to your visit, feel free to call or email Dr. Howard and she would be glad to answer them for you.