Patient Tips

Scheduling Appointments

Scheduling is a critical issue in every physician's office. AGA is no exception. Our physicians' schedules reflect the amount of time necessary to assist you with your medical issues. While our staff makes every effort to stay on established schedules, there may be occasions when you have to wait due to an emergency. We make every effort to keep these delays to a minimum.

Missed Appointment Policy

To better serve our patients and minimize costs, please note that a missed appointment will result in the following charge:

• Office Visits - $25
• Procedures - $75

To avoid these charges, please reschedule two working days (48 hours) before your appointment.

Payment

• AGA accepts cash, checks and credit cards.
• If you are paying with cash, please have the correct amount (for example, the amount of your insurance co-payment).
• Payment is expected at the conclusion of each visit.
• If you need to set up a payment plan, a member of our Business Office staff will be glad to help you.

For New Patients

Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment, allowing ample time for traffic and parking. You will need this time to complete and sign any forms, and time for our staff to make the necessary copies of your insurance information.

Please make sure you have your current insurance card and a photo I.D. (driver's license or military I.D.) when you arrive for your appointment.

Many insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician., particularly HMO and PPO plans. We highly recommend that you check with your insurance company about your coverage before your appointment.

* You will need to know:

• if your coverage has an annual deductible;
• if your insurance will cover a prescreening colonoscopy -
• if you have no symptoms;
• if your insurance will cover an office visit and possible procedure if you do have medical symptoms; and
• if you need a referral from your primary care physician.

If a referral is required, please check with your insurance company and your primary care physician at least two weeks prior to your visit to make sure a referral is being sent to us. Referrals should be sent to the AGA office you are visiting at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment.

Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates accepts Medicare, Medicaid and most insurances offered in the state of Georgia.

For Established Patients

Each time you visit one of our offices, please make sure we have the most current insurance information and demographic information (address, phone numbers, etc.)

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment, allowing ample time for traffic and parking. If you are more than 30 minutes late for your appointment, you will have to reschedule.