Bring your questions for your doctor to your first visit. We help you get started with a checklist of what to expect and what to prepare. Prepare for your visit by completing the following guidelines:

1. Gather important information to bring to your appointment.

• Valid photo identification
  
• Your health insurance card(s), including Medicare, Medi-Cal (California Medicaid), Covered California, and any others
• Check, credit card, or debit card to pay for your health insurance copay (cash not accepted)

2. Prepare for your conversation with your doctor.

• Read through this site for details about:
  • Whom you’ll meet at Stanford Health Care during your visit
  • Our approach to treatment
  • What to expect
  • Services available to you and your family
• Write down your questions and bring them so you can ask your doctor during your visit.
• Tell your care team if you would like free interpretation in your preferred language during your visits. You can also work with online interpreters. Learn more about Stanford Interpreter Services.

3. Arrange for a family member or friend to come with you.

• Please plan to spend two to four hours at your first appointment.
• It can be very helpful to have someone with you at your first appointment. Your companion can help you take notes, hold your personal items, and provide support during your visit.

4. Plan to arrive on time for your appointment.

• Write your appointment details in the spaces below:
  • Doctor:
  • Date and time:
  • Address:
• Plan ahead for how you will get to your appointment. Make sure to include time in traffic or on public transportation, and for parking and walking to the building.
• Arrive at least 90 minutes before your appointment time. If you have time, visit or contact our health library. Our library staff is happy to help you learn more about your condition and the treatment options we offer.

Published February 2022
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