What to Expect During Your First Visit to a Concierge Doctor

A concierge doctor's approach to care is rooted in personalized attention, proactive health management, and strong doctor-patient relationships. Understanding what to expect during your first visit can help you make the most of this opportunity to improve your health.

At Three Rivers Medicine, our goal is to ensure you feel supported, heard, and empowered from the moment you walk through our doors. This article will walk you through what a typical first visit to a concierge doctor entails—from extended consultation times to personalized health assessments—and how this experience differs from traditional primary care visits.

1. Longer Appointment Times to Discuss Your Health History

One of the hallmarks of concierge medicine is the focus on extended appointments. Unlike traditional healthcare, where visits often last 15 minutes or less, your first appointment with a concierge doctor may range from 45 minutes to over an hour. This extra time allows your doctor to get to know you not just as a patient, but as a person, ensuring a holistic understanding of your health history, lifestyle, and wellness goals.

During this initial visit, your doctor will dive deeply into your medical history. You’ll discuss:

• Past medical conditions, surgeries, and family history
• Current medications and any known allergies
• Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise routines, stress levels, and sleep habits
• Goals for your health and any concerns you’d like to address

This comprehensive review sets the foundation for a personalized care plan, allowing your doctor to identify potential health risks, areas for improvement, and any preventive measures you may need.

2. A Comprehensive Health Assessment

After your medical history is reviewed, the next step is often a comprehensive health assessment. This can include a physical examination, lab tests, and screenings based on your age, gender, and unique health needs. Concierge practices often provide more in-depth assessments than traditional practices, enabling a thorough evaluation of your overall health.

This part of the visit is also about being proactive. For instance, if you are at an age where specific health screenings are recommended—like cholesterol checks, mammograms, or blood glucose testing—your concierge doctor will either provide these tests or help arrange them. Practices like Three Rivers Medicine may even offer advanced screenings, such as the Galleri test for early cancer detection, as part of their comprehensive health evaluation.

Your doctor will explain what each test or screening is for, how it relates to your health goals, and when you can expect the results. This transparent, educational approach empowers you to make informed decisions about your health.

3. A Personalized Health Plan Tailored to Your Needs

After reviewing your health history and assessment results, your concierge doctor will work with you to develop a tailored health plan to optimize your well-being. This plan may include:

• Preventive care recommendations, such as regular screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle modifications
• Diet and nutrition advice to help achieve your health goals
• Exercise guidance that fits your lifestyle and preferences
• Mental health support, including resources for stress management or therapy referrals

This personalized approach ensures that you’re not just treated for symptoms but are actively guided toward long-term wellness.

If you’re unsure about your goals or need additional guidance, our article on How Preventive Care Can Reduce Your Health Risks offers further insights into the preventive strategies we integrate into our patients' care plans.

4. Open Communication and Time for Your Questions

Concierge medicine emphasizes open communication, ensuring you have plenty of time to ask questions and discuss your concerns. Your first visit is a great opportunity to clarify aspects of your health and long-term wellness goals.

Consider asking questions such as:

• What preventive measures can I take to improve my health?
• Are there specific lifestyle changes you recommend?
• How often should I schedule checkups or screenings?
• What can I do to better manage stress and improve mental well-being?

5. Coordinating Care Beyond the First Visit

Your first visit is just the beginning of an ongoing partnership. Your concierge doctor will help coordinate follow-up appointments, specialist referrals, and any necessary lab tests. This coordinated approach ensures seamless, continuous care tailored to your needs.

Services may include:

• Scheduling regular follow-ups to monitor your progress
• Coordinating specialist referrals with seamless communication between providers
• Providing 24/7 access via phone, text, or email for urgent concerns

If you're unsure whether this level of care fits your needs, our article on Is Concierge Medicine Right for You? A Quick Self-Assessment can help determine if this model aligns with your health priorities.

6. A Transformative Healthcare Experience

Your first visit is about building a trusting relationship and establishing a proactive approach to your health. It’s a transformative experience that encourages deeper conversations about your well-being and places you at the center of your healthcare.

The concierge approach emphasizes:

• Time and attention: No rushed appointments—your doctor takes the time to understand your health fully.
• Preventive care focus: Your doctor works proactively to keep you healthy, not just treating symptoms.
• Personalized healthcare: Your unique needs drive your care plan, ensuring it aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

Conclusion: Embracing a Proactive Approach to Your Health

Your first visit with a concierge doctor sets the foundation for a healthcare experience that is truly personalized, comprehensive, and proactive. With extended appointments, open communication, and a focus on preventive care, concierge medicine offers a unique opportunity to take control of your health.

If you're ready for a healthcare experience that puts you at the center, reach out to Three Rivers Medicine today to schedule your first visit. We’re here to support your health journey and ensure you receive the attentive, personalized care you deserve.