Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is your financial policy?

Payment at the time of service is preferred, but if you want us to file your primary and secondary insurance, present your insurance card(s) to our receptionist at the time of your visit. Please verify that we participate with your insurance company so payment arrangements can be made if necessary. For your convenience, a list of participating insurance networks for AOC is posted on the board beside the check-in windows and also available at our web site in PDF format:

AOC/GSMI Participating Health Plans 2005 (pdf)

What is your appointment policy?

The doctors must work by appointment. Unfortunately, patients do not become ill on schedule. Operations may take longer than anticipated and emergencies do occur, hence, delays are inevitable. When this happens your patience is appreciated. A sincere attempt is made to adhere to the clinic schedule as much as possible. The receptionist will advise you if the doctor is significantly behind schedule. We ask that, whenever possible, a return appointment for regular checkups be made before leaving the clinic. Appointments made by telephone will be seen as promptly as possible.

What if I need to cancel an appointment?

In the event that you are unable to keep an appointment, please notify the clinic twenty-four hours in advance. This courtesy on your part makes it possible to give an appointment to another patient who needs to see the doctor.

How are incoming calls handled?

We have instructed our secretaries to handle all incoming calls. This allows the physician to attend to his patients with a minimum of interruptions. If delays occur in contacting your physician, please be patient. Should you call concerning an emergency, the secretary will immediately contact the physician.

How do I get a refill on my prescription?

Calls for prescriptions must be during clinic hours (8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.), Monday through Friday. The physicians must have the benefit of reviewing your medical chart before prescribing any additional medications. Calculate in advance when you may need a refill on medicines that are prescribed by us. When calling the prescription line, please have the pharmacy name and number available and leave your date of birth and attending physician so we may expedite your request.

What are your office hours?

Athens Office

Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Greensboro Office

Every other Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Prescriptions

Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring your insurance card, referral if required by your insurer, and workers compensation authorization, if needed.

What can I expect at the first appointment?

The receptionist will ask you to fill out a patient information form. These questions are the initial part of the examination and provide us with essential information about you and your medical history. Your address and phone number are important in case we need to get in touch with you. Information concerning occupation, age, etc. is likewise important because it may have a bearing on your current health status. Additionally, this information is required by insurance networks to insure payment reimbursement. All information give to us is confidential.

When it is time to be seen by the physician, the assistant will usher you into a treatment room and make you comfortable. Give some thought to your medical history beforehand, for example, your height, weight and allergies. It is helpful if you can remember to bring in a list of all current medications you are taking or the medications themselves. The doctor will then make an examination to determine the nature of your complaint and x-rays may be taken, if necessary. After the visit is complete, the receptionist will make a return appointment, if necessary.