New Patient Information

Planning For Your Visit With An Allergy Doctor Near You

What to Expect

Your first visit, which could last 2-4 hours, will include a detailed medical history, physical examination, and, in many cases, allergy skin testing. Other studies may include X-rays, laboratory tests, and lung function tests.  We do ask that you not take any antihistamine medication for at least 5 days prior to your first visit since they may interfere with your allergy skin test results. If you have any question about the type of medication you are taking, please ask one of our staff, your pharmacist, or refer to our antihistamine link.

After we have obtained a full history and necessary testing has been completed, one of our Board-Certified Allergist will review your findings with you. We will work together to determine the best course of action and establish a treatment plan. Treatment plans could include avoidance of allergens, medications, and/or immunotherapy (allergy shots). 

If you would like to schedule an appointment with The Allergy Asthma Group of Galen or have general questions, please call (423) 499-4100.

If you have an upcoming new patient appointment, please complete the forms listed below. Your information will be sent to our scheduling department via a secure server.

New Patient Forms for Adults

Copies of any previous allergy evaluation or other relevant medical records

  • List of current or recent medications and dosages
  • Name and address of your referring or primary care physician Name, address, and policy numbers of your insurance company
  • Authorization for consultations (if appropriate)

TREATMENT CONFERENCE

After we have obtained a full history, and necessary testing has been completed, it is important to review our findings and recommendations with you. In most instances, we can do so on the same day as your initial evaluation.

Your entire problem will be discussed, with a course of treatment outlined in detail. You are encouraged to ask questions, and, if possible, to have your spouse or significant other present for the treatment conference so that all concerned will fully understand what is necessary for the treatment program to work.

APPOINTMENTS

To serve our patients more efficiently all visits, except for allergy injections, are by appointment. We do always want to offer any established patient access to availability of care. If you are sick from allergy, asthma, or a related illness, we will make every attempt to give you an appointment in a timely manner. For a regular follow-up visit, please call three to four weeks in advance so that we may schedule a convenient time for you. Please remember to call and notify us as soon as possible if you ever need to reschedule your appointment.

AFTER-HOURS/EMERGENCY CARE

At times it may be difficult to know which physician (pediatrician, family physician, internist, or specialist) to contact concerning a particular problem. We always advise patients to contact your primary care physician first. If your primary care doctor thinks it is necessary, then please call us! Be prepared to provide a description of your problem, peak flow values (if you have asthma), medications, and if you anticipate a prescription may be needed please have your pharmacist’s phone number available. Calls will be returned at the earliest opportunity. If you feel as though you need immediate attention by a physician, please go to the nearest emergency room for care.

PRESCRIPTION REFILLS

Except for emergencies, prescription refills can only be provided during regular office hours. Please have available the name of the medication, dosage, and your pharmacist’s phone number. Our physicians will call the prescription in for you or call you back if more information is needed.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Method of Payment

We accept cash, personal checks, VISA, MasterCard, or Discover. Any account having a returned check will be assessed a service charge of $30.00. Payment should be made at the time of the visit for any unmet deductible, co-payment, or noncovered items. Under special circumstances, payment plans may be arranged.

Fees & Insurance

Our providers participate in many of the PPO and HMO plans in this community. We are happy to assist in the filing of your insurance; however, you, not your insurance company, are responsible for payment. Please bring with you all necessary information concerning your insurance coverage. Any questions about insurance coverage should be discussed with your insurance company representative prior to your visit.