What to Expect at Your First Appointment
Patients may self-refer or be referred by their primary care provider to the Allen Hospital Wound & Hyperbaric Center. The
program operates by appointment. At your first visit, you'll undergo a thorough diagnostic examination to identify
the type of wound you have and the underlying problems causing the
wound. The initial appointment consists of a full assessment to
determine the cause of the wound, the appropriate classification and
size of the wound, your overall health status and your ability to comply with needed therapies.
Based on the evaluation, a customized treatment plan is developed to
optimize the therapies best suited to address the patient's needs. Wound
size and depth are documented at the initial visit, and again at each
subsequent visit. Some of the diagnostic modalities which may be used
include:
- Laboratory evaluation
- Radiology (including MRI)
- Transcutaneous oxygen testing
- Vascular studies, electrocardiogram
- Ultrasound
After this determination, a program specifically tailored to your
needs will be initiated based on the most effective treatment options.
An interdisciplinary approach will be used to provide the maximum
healing possible. Specialized wound care is usually administered on an
outpatient basis. Patients are free to drive themselves to the Center
for therapy, and you should plan one-and-a-half to two hours for this initial visit.
What to bring to your first appointment:
- A list of all medications you're currently taking including over-the-counter drugs and vitamins and homeopathic remedies.
- A list of any allergies or sensitivities you have.
- Medical records, including x-rays, if you have them.
- Insurance cards and identification.