What to expect
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
At our Charlotte gastroenterology practice, we strive to provide patients with an exceptional healthcare experience. Here's what happens from scheduling through follow-up care.
First Steps
Before Your Visit
Scheduling Your Appointment
Getting started with Charlotte Gastro is simple and convenient. We offer multiple ways to schedule your first appointment:
How to Schedule:
- By Phone: Call (704) 377-4009 to speak directly with our scheduling team
- Online Patient Portal: Use MyChart to request appointments at your convenience
- Through Your Doctor: Your primary care provider can submit referrals directly to our office
Insurance Verification
We Make Insurance Easy
We verify your insurance eligibility when you schedule your appointment and again before each visit to ensure smooth processing. However, because insurance benefits can vary significantly by plan, we strongly recommend calling your insurance company directly to confirm that Charlotte Gastro is in-network with your specific plan.
Procedure Cost Estimates
If your provider recommends a diagnostic procedure to be performed at one of our Charlotte Gastro locations, you'll receive a benefits estimate letter before your visit date. This transparency helps you understand your expected out-of-pocket costs with no surprises.
Questions About Coverage?
- Best Resource: Contact your insurance company directly for benefits-related questions
- Need Assistance with a bill? Our billing department can help answer general questions. Call (704) 377-4009
What To Bring
New Patient Checklist
Please bring these items to ensure a smooth check-in process:
- Photo ID: Driver's license or state ID
- Current insurance card(s): Bring all cards if you have multiple plans
- Referral paperwork: If required by your insurance
- Complete list of current medications: Include dosages and frequency
- Previous test results or medical records: Relevant to your digestive health concerns
- Payment method for copay: We accept checks, cash, and credit cards
Meet with your Care Team
During Your Visit
Who You'll See
Here's what to expect when you come for your first appointment:
During your first visit, you'll meet with members of our experienced gastroenterology team. Your care may be led by:
- Gastroenterologist (MD) — Your primary physician who will oversee your diagnosis and treatment plan
- Advanced Practice Provider (APP) — Advanced practice provider who works closely with our physicians to deliver comprehensive care
- Clinical Support Staff — Nurses and medical assistants who support your visit and coordinate your care
Our collaborative team approach ensures you receive expert, coordinated care at every appointment.
Medical History Review
A Comprehensive Discussion
Your provider will spend time understanding your complete medical history, including:
- Your current digestive symptoms and concerns
- Past medical history and previous treatments
- Family history of digestive or other medical conditions
- Current medications, supplements, and allergies
- Lifestyle factors that may impact your digestive health
Diagnostic Planning
Determining the Right Tests
Based on your symptoms, medical history, and examination findings, your provider may recommend diagnostic tests to better understand your condition. Common recommendations include:
- Blood Work - To check for inflammation, anemia, liver function, or other markers
- Imaging Studies - Ultrasound or CT scan to visualize your digestive organs
- Endoscopic Procedures - Colonoscopy or upper endoscopy to directly examine your GI tract
Treatment Discussion
Collaborative Care Planning
After your examination and any initial test results, your provider will discuss:
- Preliminary Findings - What we've learned from your history and exam
- Treatment Options - Available approaches tailored to your specific condition
- Next Steps - Whether additional testing is needed, medication recommendations, or procedure scheduling
What Comes Next
After Your Visit
Results Communication
Staying Informed About Your Health
After your appointment or any diagnostic testing, staying informed about results is important to us. All results will be posted to:
- MyChart Patient Portal - Your fastest access to results as soon as they're available in your electronic record. You'll receive an email notification when new results are posted.
Follow-Up Scheduling
Typical Timelines
Follow-up appointments vary based on your specific situation:
- Routine Monitoring - May be scheduled weeks to months after your first visit
- Post-Procedure Check - Often scheduled 2-4 weeks after a procedure
- Active Treatment - More frequent visits may be needed for new diagnoses or medication adjustments
Your provider will recommend an appropriate follow-up schedule based on your individual needs.
Between-Visit Support
Who to Contact with Questions
- MyChart Patient Portal - Your fastest access to your care team.
- Test results and procedure reports
- Visit summaries and treatment plans
- Medication management
- Current medication list
- Secure messaging with your care team
- Appointment scheduling and requests
- Billing statements and online payment
- Clinical Questions (symptoms, preparation, test results) —
(704) 377-4009, option 3 - Medical Emergencies — Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room