Prior to your first visit:

Discontinue all antihistamines for a week prior to your visit. We will probably do allergy testing at the first visit. Antihistamines interfere with test results. Antihistamines include medications such as Claritin (loratadine), Alavert, Allegra (fexofenadine), Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Clarinex, hydroxyzine, Xyzal, and Zyrtec (cetirizine). There are many more, so if you are uncertain, call us to ask before you come. DO NOT STOP your asthma, blood pressure or other medications that you take daily. Again, please call us if you are uncertain.

Complete the attached paperwork:

Complete the New Patient Registration Forms, attach a copy of your physician referral (if needed) and front and back of your insurance card(s). You can either mail or fax the packet back to the office. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us.

Bring your current medications with you:

It is also helpful if you can tell us what has been prescribed to you in the past.

Please bring your insurance card and, if necessary, a referral from your primary care physician:

Most insurance companies do not require a referral from your primary care doctor. However, if it is required by your insurance, please contact your primary care doctor a week or more in advance of your appointment to request one. Your co-payment will be collected at the time of your visit. Please note that your financial responsibilities, such as deductible and the limits of your coverage are your responsibility. Please contact your insurance company before your visit to find out exactly what is covered and your financial responsibilities. We will submit your claims to your insurance carrier for you.

Be prepared to spend one to two hours at your initial visit:

After taking your history, we will perform an exam. Allergy testing takes 15-30 minutes. Lung function testing, if necessary, can take an additional 15-30 minutes. After we have completed our testing, we will discuss a treatment plan with you before you go home.

Wear comfortable clothing and a short-sleeve shirt or blouse:

Allergy tests are usually performed on the arms for our adult patients and on the back for children. Allergy skin tests usually involve some itching. Reactions occur only on the skin, and usually resolve within a couple of hours. These can be easily treated with topical cream.

Please notify us 24 hours in advance if you cannot keep the appointment:

We reserve the right to charge a no-show fee for a missed appointment. Your courtesy makes it possible to schedule another patient who may be ill.