Before your visit
The service is for people with problems in joints or muscles where the GP is unsure of the cause or thinks you may need further tests carried out. We only deal with one problem at a time so if, for example, you have both knee and elbow pain, your GP will make two referrals so there is enough time to fully investigate both.
Your doctor will ask you to phone to agree an appointment date; you will then get a letter confirming this. It will also give you information about how to get to Kingsgate and where to check in.
On the day of your appointment make sure you wear clothes that you can easily take off and wear sensible underwear to save any embarrassment. Nearly all patients have to undress to be examined.
Bring a list of any medicines you are taking and a short list of any other tests or operations or any health problems you have. Also write down any questions you have about your problem. Your appointment is for 30 minutes – please arrive on time or a full examination cannot be carried out. Appointments do run to time – if there is a wait this is most likely due to difficulties with an earlier patient.
During your visit
You will be asked to describe what the problem is. You will be examined and given a diagnosis. You will be shown how to carry out any exercises and given advice on dealing with the problem. If you need to have a steroid injection or have blood taken, you will be asked to wait for 20 minutes before leaving the building to check you are OK.
After your visit
You will be telephoned with the results of any tests that you have had. We will also advise you if we need to send you to see someone else. |