1. FIRST: Mark down in your calendar the date and time of your Initial Exam with Dr. Bernhoft. Due to heavy patient load and minimal staffing we do not give appointment reminder calls at this time. You are responsible for keeping your appointment or cancelling your appointment before our 72 hour deadline, either by speaking directly with a member of our staff or leaving a voicemail message. If you do not cancel your appointment before the 72 hour deadline, you will be billed for the appointment time.
  2. SECOND: Fill out & sign both New Patient Forms and Consent Forms. You can access the new patient and consent forms by clicking here:
  3. THIRD: Make a list of all your symptoms. It is easy to remember the symptoms that hurt or limit your ability to function, but other signs that are not very bothersome (thirst, poor sleep, weight changes) can be important to the doctor. Do not be afraid of being considered a “complainer.” Report these. Let Dr. Bernhoft decide if a symptom is important or not. Also, write them down so they won’t be forgotten.
  4. FOURTH: Be prepared to tell the doctor other matters or concerns that may be important.
    • What other medications, including those not requiring prescriptions have you been taking?
    • Does your occupation expose you to unusual chemicals, fumes, or particular physical materials?
    • Does anyone in your family or work place have symptoms like yours?
    • Have you ever had allergic reactions to antibiotics, aspirin or other medicines?
  5. FIFTH: What questions do you have? Do you want to know what activities you can engage in, what you can eat, why certain tests were done, what your illness may or may not be? These are too easily forgotten in the office. Please write them down and bring them with you to your appointment with Dr. Bernhoft.
  6. SIXTH: Speak freely. No subject or part of your body is too personal to discuss with your doctor. This includes bowel habits, sexual concerns, personal matters related to your marriage, children, finances, and destructive behaviors such as physical abuse, alcohol and drug misuse. The doctor can often provide considerable assistance.
  7. SEVENTH: Our Goal. We want you to learn what makes you sick and what you can do to restore your health. We want to see you get well and stay well. You can take charge of your health! The decision is in your hands.