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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need to arrive before my appointment time?
A. Yes. Please arrive about 15 minutes before your appointment time in order to complete your new patient form. This form is available on this website, and you may complete it in advance and bring to your appointment if you wish.
Q. Where do I go to see the doctor?
A. The Otolaryngology (ENT) clinic is at Duke South, 1st floor, Clinic 1-H, Purple Zone. A map and directions are also available on this website.
Q. How long does it take to get a new patient appointment?
A. Although this varies, usually patients can get an appointment within two to three weeks.
Q. Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?
Q. Bring any medical information relating to the reason for your visit, a list of medications you are taking, and your new patient form if you have completed in advance.
Preoperative/Operative
Q. How will I know if my insurance company has approved my surgery?
A. Once the surgery is scheduled, the Preregistration Office personnel proceed with obtaining appropriate authorizations. The patient and Dr. Witsell’s office will be notified before your surgery day if there are any problems with your insurance.
Q. What is the purpose of a preoperative work up?
A. This is to review your medical history and medications, examine you and clear you medically for your surgical procedure and to undergo anesthesia.
Q. Can I eat the day of my preoperative work up?
A. Yes. There are no nutritional limitations to observe on the day of your work up.
Q. Do I need to discontinue any medications in preparation for my surgery?
A. If you are on any blood thinners such as Coumadin and including aspirin, these will need to be discontinued for approximately seven days prior to your surgery. Some patients will need to be switched to another medication during this time, and others will need to discontinue it altogether. This will be coordinated with your physician who prescribes those medications.
Q. Will I be given any medications after my surgery?
A. It is likely that you will be given antibiotics and/or pain medications after your surgery. These prescriptions will be given to you when you leave the hospital.
Q. How often do you have a Botox clinic?
A. Approximately every four to six weeks.
Q. Does the injection hurt?
A. The Botox is injected through a very thin needle, and although every patient differs, it is not usually associated with a significant amount of pain.
Q. How long will my injection last?
A. Most patients have improvement in their voice for about three months. Some patients, however, experience an improved voice for up to a year.
Q. Can I talk to some of your other patients who have undergone Botox injections?
A. Yes. We will be happy to put you in contact with other patients who have had Botox injections for a voice disorder.
Q. Will my insurance cover Botox injections for my voice disorder?
A. Yes. While lots of Botox treatments are considered cosmetic, voice problems that Dr. Witsell treats with Botox are not for cosmetic purposes, and are covered by most insurance companies.
Q. Can I get a prescription refill called in for me without coming to see the doctor?
A. This is possible, depending upon what the prescription is, and how long it has been since you have seen the doctor. |
