“Hey there! Welcome to the City Care Family Practice!” the receptionist says, peeking out from behind a counter that’s a little too tall for her to see over.
As you step closer, her bright smile lights up, and she cheerfully asks, “Is this your first time visiting us? Awesome! Let’s get you all set up!”
We know visiting a new doctor can be nerve-wracking, especially your first time. At City Care Family Practice, we’re here to make sure your visit is welcoming, smooth, and thorough. In this post, we’ll guide you through what to expect, how to prepare, and answer common questions about your first appointment.
Before Your Appointment: Preparing Ahead
To make the most of your first visit, here are some things you can do in advance:
- Insurance verification.
It’s often helpful to call your insurance ahead of time to verify that we are in-network for your plan and coverage details, and whether any prior authorizations or referrals are required. - Gather your medical information!
- List of current medications and supplements
- Medical history summary – imaging and/or lab reports, immunization history, any medical records
- Prep your Questions!
- Do not freeze during your appointment! Note your questions down before your appointment so you already know what you want to ask the provider!
- Day of your appointment
- Bring identification (photo ID) and insurance info. (insurance card)
- Arrive early.
Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes ahead of your appointment time to complete in -person check in and new patient paperwork. **Coming in early will help maximize your time with the provider!
What Happens During the First Visit
Once you have reached our building, you will encounter a bronze door. Then take the elevator up to the 9th floor.
If the doors are locked, please enter “222” into the keypad at the door so we may let you in!
1. First things first, let us know who you are!
– Complete check-in on one of our kiosks
– Our staff will be available to assist if needed!
– Review the paperwork!
1. We have a few forms that will require your attention such as an office policy form and a credit card authorization form. Do not hesitate to ask us if you have any questions!
- Medical History & Review
Our medical assistant will take you to an exam room, measure vital signs (blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, height, weight), and review your medical history, medications, allergies, and chief complaints. - Physician or Provider Consultation
Your primary provider will come in, talk with you about your health goals, symptoms, and concerns, perform a physical examination, and may order labs or imaging tests if needed. - Diagnostic Tests & Laboratory Work
As needed, we may draw blood, collect urine, or order other diagnostic studies (e.g. EKG, X-ray) depending on your condition.
– Please note that we are not a blood processing facility! We send your specimen to Quest Diagnostic for processing.
- Questions & Education
We encourage you to ask questions—about medications, lifestyle changes, follow-up visits, or anything you don’t understand. Your providers will explain lab results, side effects, or follow-ups in straightforward terms. - Follow-up Scheduling & Referrals
If further visits are needed, lab tests are ordered, or referrals are made, the front desk will help you schedule. - Billing & Insurance
At or after your visit, our billing team will process claims with your insurance. You may be asked to pay a co-pay, deductible portion, or out-of-pocket if applicable. (All co-pay, co-ins, deductible portion, or out-of-pocket balances are due upon arrival.) We’ll provide you with receipts or statements as needed.
Tips to Make It Go Smoothly
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing so that physical examinations are easier.
- Bring a list of all health-related questions you want answered.
- Be honest with your personal health history; providers rely on accurate information to give precise care.
- Don’t be hesitant to ask for clarification. Medical language (Terminology) can be confusing sometimes.
- If English isn’t your first language, bring someone who can help translate or ask ahead if an interpreter is available to assist you.
Q & A Section: Answers to Common Questions
1. How long should I plan for the first appointment?
Plan for 30 – 60 minutes. The initial visit tends to be longer because of history, examination, ordering tests, and discussion of care.
2. What if I need lab work—will I need to return?
Sometimes lab draws (blood tests) can be done the same day, however we do not process your blood in the office. Your specimen gets sent to Quest labs, where they will process and provide us with a report. If you would like to get your lab drawn another day, we will provide you with instructions to go to Quest or any other lab facility of your choosing.
3. Do I need to fast before the visit?
If your provider ordered specific labs (such as a lipid profile or glucose test), you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours. And in most cases, fasting is optional but not necessary. The most important thing is to be hydrated.
4. Can I bring a family member or friend?
Yes, absolutely. Many patients find it helpful to have someone accompany them to listen, take notes, or share health history. Patients under 18 must have one legal guardian/ immediate family member to accompany them.
5. What about COVID-19 or infectious screening?
We follow all current CDC and local health guidelines. If you have active respiratory symptoms or infectious disease concerns, notify us ahead of your arrival so we can take proper precautions.
6. Will my insurance cover everything?
Coverage depends on your plan. Once you have scheduled an appointment, we will do a quick eligibility check to find out what your copay may be and if your insurance is active. However, we will not know the total cost of your appointment until after your insurance has processed the claim.
8. How and when will I get my test results?
Results are typically available within a few business days. We will post your results to your patient portal, so be sure to sign up! If a follow-up is requested by the provider, we will give you a call and send a secure message.
9. Will I need follow-up visits?
Often yes. Chronic conditions or new diagnoses are seldom resolved in one visit. Your provider will create a care plan, which may include follow-ups at intervals (e.g. 3 months, 6 months) or sooner if needed.
10. Can I bring my child or multiple family members?
Yes. We treat patients across the lifespan. If multiple family members have appointments, please inform us ahead so we can stagger timings and accommodate everyone. For underage children and parents have same day appointments, we might need to schedule the one of the parent with the child under the same provider.
11. What if I’m nervous or anxious about the visit?
That’s normal! Our team is here to support you. You can let us know at check-in if you are anxious, which helps staff ensure you are comfortable and understand each step. You can also call about directions if you cannot find our location.
In Summary
Your first visit to City Care Family Practice is your opportunity to lay the foundation for ongoing, personalized, and preventive care. From collecting your medical history to building a treatment plan tailored for you, our goal is to make you feel heard, respected, and well cared for.
City Care Family Practice
461 Park Ave South, 9th Floor (at 31st Street)
New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 545-1888
Website: https://citycarefamilypractice.com/