FAQ

Find the answers you need in our comprehensive FAQ section.

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What is a health checkup?

A health checkup is a series of tests and examinations performed by healthcare professionals to assess your overall health and identify potential problems.

Early detection of health issues can lead to better treatment outcomes. Regular checkups also promote preventative care and help you make informed decisions about your health.

This depends on your age, risk factors, and family history. Generally, adults should get a checkup at least once a year, but your doctor can advise you on the best schedule for your needs.

A typical checkup includes a physical exam, blood tests, urine tests, and possibly other screenings like X-rays or an ECG, depending on your age and risk factors.

Yes! Many health conditions don’t show symptoms in the early stages. Regular checkups can help detect these conditions before they become serious.

What is a laboratory test?

A laboratory test is a medical procedure that involves analyzing a sample of your blood, urine, or other bodily substance. These tests help doctors diagnose diseases, monitor your health, and make decisions about your treatment.

Your healthcare provider will order the appropriate tests based on your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors.

This depends on the specific test and the policies of our lab. Some tests may require an appointment, while others may be done on a walk-in basis. It’s best to check with us beforehand.

Turnaround time varies depending on the complexity of the test. Many common tests have results available within 24-48 hours, but some specialized tests may take longer.

Your healthcare provider will interpret your results and explain what they mean. They will also discuss any necessary follow-up care or treatment options.

What is a vaccine?

A vaccine is a biological preparation that helps protect you from getting sick from certain diseases. It works by training your body’s immune system to recognize and fight off specific viruses or bacteria.

This depends on your age, health history, lifestyle, and travel plans. It’s best to consult your doctor or a travel health specialist to determine your individual needs.

Vaccines are rigorously tested for safety before being approved for use. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever. Serious side effects are very rare.

Vaccines protect you from serious diseases and help prevent the spread of those diseases to others. This helps to protect vulnerable populations like infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

Most side effects are mild and go away on their own. You can apply a cold compress to the injection site and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. If you have any concerns, contact your doctor.

What is minor surgery?

Minor surgery refers to surgical procedures that are less invasive than major surgery, often involving smaller incisions, local anesthesia, and minimal tissue disruption. These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home the same day.

Most minor surgeries are performed under local anesthesia, numbing the area being treated. In some cases, you may be offered sedation to help you relax.

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.

Minor surgery is generally safe, but like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, including:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Scarring
  • Pain
  • Nerve damage

Benefits of minor surgery include:

  • Minimal invasiveness
  • Quick recovery time
  • Reduced pain and discomfort
  • Improved cosmetic appearance
  • Early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer
What is wound care?

Wound care is the process of treating and managing an injury to the skin and underlying tissue. This can include a variety of wounds like cuts, scrapes, burns, pressure sores, and surgical incisions.

Signs of infection include increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, pus or discharge, and possibly fever.

The frequency of wound checks depends on the type, severity, and location of your wound. We will develop a personalized plan for you.

(This depends on your service. If you do) Yes, we offer home visits for patients who have difficulty traveling to our clinic.

This depends on the type of wound and dressing. We’ll provide specific instructions for your situation. In general, avoid soaking the wound.

What is IV therapy?

IV therapy involves administering fluids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants directly into your bloodstream through a vein. This allows for rapid absorption and 100% bioavailability, meaning your body utilizes the nutrients immediately.

IV therapy is generally safe when administered by a qualified healthcare professional. We take precautions to ensure your safety, including:

  • Using sterile equipment and techniques
  • Monitoring you throughout the infusion
  • Reviewing your medical history and current medications

The duration of an IV infusion varies depending on the type of infusion and individual needs. Most infusions take between 30 and 60 minutes.

You may experience a slight pinch when the IV catheter is inserted, but the infusion itself is generally painless.

The cost of IV therapy varies depending on the type of infusion and the provider.

What is doctor on call?

Doctor On Call is a telehealth service that allows you to have virtual appointments with a doctor from the comfort of your own home, using your phone or computer.

Our doctors can treat a wide range of conditions, including colds, flu, allergies, urinary tract infections, skin rashes, anxiety, and depression. We also offer chronic disease management for conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

Yes, our doctors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

The cost of a Doctor On Call visit varies depending on factors such as the length of the consultation and whether you have insurance. We strive to offer transparent and competitive pricing.

We accept many major insurance plans. Please check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for telehealth services.

What is medical tourism?

Medical tourism involves traveling to another country to receive healthcare. It can include a wide range of treatments, from health checkups and dental care to specialized surgeries.

Many people choose medical tourism to access high-quality care at lower costs, shorter wait times, specialized treatments, or to combine their healthcare with a vacation.

Highlight your clinic’s strengths, such as:

  • Experienced and qualified medical professionals
  • State-of-the-art facilities and technology
  • Personalized care and attention
  • Affordable prices and transparent billing
  • Convenient location and comfortable environment
  • Support with travel arrangements and accommodation

 

Advise patients to check with their insurance provider about coverage for medical expenses incurred overseas. You can also mention if you work with any international insurance providers.

Advise patients to get a checkup in their home country if necessary, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.

What are STDs?

STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. They’re caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Many STDs have no symptoms. Testing is the only way to know your status and prevent spreading infections. Early detection also makes treatment more effective.

It depends on your sexual activity and risk factors. Talk to your doctor for personalized recommendations. Generally, sexually active people should be tested at least once a year.

Yes, your test results and medical information are kept strictly confidential.

Results typically take a few days to a week.

What is PEP?

PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis. It’s a course of antiretroviral medications taken after a possible exposure to HIV to reduce the risk of getting infected. It’s crucial to start PEP as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of exposure.

PEP is not 100% effective, but it can significantly reduce the risk of HIV infection if started promptly and taken correctly.

PEP is typically a 28-day course of medication. You must take it exactly as prescribed for it to be effective.

Side effects vary from person to person but can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, and rash. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Insurance coverage for PEP varies. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.

What is PrEP?

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It involves taking a specific medication to prevent HIV infection. It is highly effective when taken as prescribed.

PrEP medication works by blocking the HIV virus from replicating in your body. This prevents the virus from establishing an infection.

When taken consistently as directed, PrEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%. Among people who inject drugs, it reduces the risk by at least 74%.

No, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is taken before a potential exposure to HIV to prevent infection. PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is taken after a possible exposure to reduce the risk of contracting HIV.

Most people experience mild side effects, if any, which may include nausea, headache, or fatigue. These usually subside over time.

Peptides are naturally occurring biological molecules composed of short chains of amino acids, which are the fundamental building blocks of proteins. Unlike full proteins, peptides typically contain fewer than 50 amino acids. They function as signaling molecules within the body, playing critical roles in various physiological processes such as hormone production, immune function, cell communication, and tissue repair.

Peptide therapies involve the administration of specific peptides to the body to modulate or enhance particular biological functions. By mimicking the actions of naturally occurring peptides, or by stimulating the body’s own production of certain compounds, these therapies can target specific cellular pathways to achieve desired therapeutic effects. This targeted approach allows for precise interventions to support various health goals.

When administered and monitored by a qualified and experienced healthcare professional, peptide therapies are generally considered safe and well-tolerated. The peptides used in therapy are often bioidentical or naturally occurring, which typically leads to a low risk of adverse reactions. As with any medical treatment, a thorough evaluation of your health history and current medications is essential to ensure suitability and minimize potential side effects.

The method of peptide administration can vary depending on the specific peptide and its intended purpose. Common administration routes include subcutaneous injections (under the skin), which use very fine needles and are generally well-tolerated. Some peptides may also be available in the form of nasal sprays, transdermal creams, or oral supplements, though oral bioavailability can sometimes be limited due to digestion. Your healthcare provider will determine the most effective and appropriate method for your treatment plan.

The timeframe for observing results from peptide therapy can vary significantly depending on the individual, the specific peptides being used, and the condition being addressed. While some individuals may notice improvements in a few weeks, it is often recommended to allow for a period of 3 to 6 months to experience the full benefits of the treatment as the body gradually responds and adapts to the therapy. Consistency and adherence to the prescribed protocol are key factors in achieving optimal outcomes.

What is the difference between an emergency and an urgent medical condition?

An emergency is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention to prevent serious disability or death. Examples include chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, stroke symptoms, or major trauma. An urgent medical condition is one that requires prompt attention within 24 hours but is not typically life-threatening.

Examples include minor cuts, sprains, fevers, or urinary tract infections. If you believe your condition is life-threatening, please come to the emergency department without delay.

Wait times can vary depending on the number of patients and the severity of their conditions. Upon arrival, every patient is assessed by a triage nurse to determine their medical priority. Patients with the most critical, life-threatening conditions are always treated first. We are committed to seeing every patient as quickly as possible and appreciate your patience as we provide essential care to those most in need.

You should call an ambulance immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, have severe difficulty breathing, have sustained a major injury, or believe your condition is life-threatening. Paramedics can provide life-saving medical treatment en route to the hospital. For less severe conditions where you can travel safely, you may choose to arrive by private vehicle.

If possible, please bring a form of personal identification, your health insurance card, a list of your current medications and known allergies, and contact information for your primary care physician. Having this information readily available helps us to provide faster and more effective care.

After a thorough evaluation and initial treatment, your physician will determine the next steps. Depending on your diagnosis, you may be discharged with a home care plan and instructions to follow up with your primary doctor, or you may be admitted to the hospital for further observation and treatment. Our staff will clearly explain the plan of care to you before you leave the department.