New patients
Your first visit, step by step.
The first visit is an evaluation, not a procedure. Bring your imaging reports, medication list and insurance card; leave with a diagnosis you understand and a plan.
Your first visit is a physician evaluation lasting about an hour. Bring photo ID, insurance card, imaging reports, records of prior treatment and a medication list. Procedures are scheduled separately after authorization.
What to bring
| Identification | Photo ID and insurance card(s). |
|---|---|
| Referral | If your plan requires one, or if a doctor sent you — bring the referral or ask them to fax it to (832) 916-2480. |
| Imaging | MRI, CT and X-ray reports; discs are helpful but not required. |
| Records | Prior injection, surgery, therapy notes and any pain-treatment history. |
| Medications | A current list with doses, including blood thinners, diabetes medication and supplements. |
| Your goals | What pain stops you from doing, and what you most want back. |
Forms and arrival
- New-patient forms are sent to you electronically after scheduling; completing them ahead of time saves 15–20 minutes at check-in.
- Arrive 20 minutes before your appointment time if forms are not complete.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows the physician to examine your back, neck or the painful joint.
What happens at the visit
- A medical assistant records vitals, medications and your pain history.
- The physician reviews your story and imaging, examines you, and explains the most likely source of the pain.
- You leave with a plan: further tests, a diagnostic block, a procedure, therapy, medication changes, or a referral — and a clear explanation of why.
- The team schedules the next step and starts any insurance authorization.
After the visit
Use the patient portal (opens in new tab) for records, results and non-urgent messages. Procedure instructions are on the procedure-day page. Questions about coverage are answered on the insurance page.
When not to wait for an appointment
When to get emergency care
Go to an emergency room or call 911 if you have:
- New weakness in a leg or arm, or difficulty walking
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the groin or inner thighs
- Back or neck pain with fever, chills or unexplained weight loss
- Severe pain after a fall, accident or other injury
- Chest pain, shortness of breath or a severe sudden headache
Frequently asked questions
How long is the first visit?
Plan on about an hour. The physician visit itself is typically 30–45 minutes; the rest is check-in, vitals and scheduling.
Will I have a procedure at the first visit?
Usually not. The first visit is an evaluation. Procedures are scheduled separately once insurance authorization is complete, so you can plan for a driver if needed.
Do I need new imaging?
Not always. Bring the reports you have. If imaging is needed, the physician will order it and explain why.
Can a family member come with me?
Yes. A second set of ears is welcome in the exam room.
Will you prescribe my pain medication at the first visit?
Every plan is individual. If medication is part of your care, it is prescribed under a treatment agreement with monitoring. Bring your current prescriptions and pharmacy details. See medication management.
Request an appointment
Call (832) 916-2075 or request an appointment online. New patients are welcome; the team confirms insurance and referral requirements before scheduling.