FAQ

Laboratory tests are medical procedures that involve analyzing samples of blood, urine, or other bodily fluids or tissues to help diagnose, monitor, and manage health conditions.

We are committed to providing accurate and reliable results. Our laboratory uses state-of-the-art equipment, follows strict quality control procedures, and is staffed by highly trained professionals.

Turnaround times vary depending on the test. Many routine tests are completed within 24-48 hours, while some specialized tests may take longer. We will inform you of the expected turnaround time when you schedule your test.

Most test results are available within a few days. You will receive a comprehensive report and a consultation with a doctor to discuss the findings and any necessary follow-up actions.

If your results are abnormal, your doctor will contact you to discuss the findings and recommend appropriate follow-up care or treatment.

Vaccines help your body develop immunity to specific diseases by introducing a weakened or inactive form of the germ, triggering an immune response without causing illness.

Yes, vaccines undergo rigorous testing and safety monitoring. They are one of the safest medical interventions available. Serious side effects are rare.

Yes, even healthy individuals can benefit from vaccines. Vaccines protect you from getting sick and prevent you from spreading diseases to others.

Please bring your ID, insurance card, and any previous vaccination records you may have.

Yes, we offer travel consultations and administer necessary vaccines based on your destination and individual needs.

Minor surgery refers to minimally invasive surgical procedures that are typically performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting, such as a doctor’s office or clinic. These procedures are generally associated with minimal discomfort, faster recovery times, and lower risk of complications compared to major surgery.

Common examples include skin lesion removal (moles, warts, skin tags), cyst removal, lipoma removal, laceration repair, abscess drainage, ingrown toenail treatment, biopsies, carpal tunnel release and trigger finger release.

Benefits include: less pain and discomfort, faster recovery, lower risk of infection, minimal scarring, reduced cost compared to major surgery, and the convenience of being performed in an outpatient setting.

The duration varies depending on the procedure. Most minor surgeries are completed within 30 minutes to an hour.

Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure or tugging.

Wound care involves all the aspects related to the cleaning, protection and promotion of healing of different types of wounds. It ranges from basic first aid to advanced therapies for chronic and complex wounds.

Wounds can be classified in several ways. Acute wounds include cuts, burns, and surgical incisions, while chronic wounds include pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers, and venous ulcers that are slow to heal.

The frequency of wound cleaning depends on the type of wound and the dressing being used. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions. However, most wounds need regular cleaning to prevent infection.

Signs of infection include increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, pus or cloudy drainage, foul odor, and fever.

Healing time varies depending on the type, size, and location of the wound, as well as your overall health. We’ll give you a better estimate after your initial assessment.

A Doctor On Call service provides remote medical consultations with qualified doctors via phone or video call, offering convenient access to healthcare without needing a physical visit.

You will need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a stable internet connection, camera, and microphone for video consultations. For phone consultations, a working phone is sufficient.

If a physical exam or lab test is required, the doctor will refer you to a local clinic, hospital, or specialist.

While Doctor On Call is a convenient option for many health concerns, it’s not intended to completely replace your regular primary care physician, especially for ongoing management of complex conditions.

Our doctors can provide information and guidance on recommended vaccinations based on your age, medical history, and travel plans. We may not be able to administer the vaccine virtually.

Medical tourism involves traveling to another country for medical treatment. This can be for various reasons, including lower costs, access to specialized treatments, or shorter wait times.

Safety is a primary concern. Reputable medical tourism providers partner with accredited hospitals and qualified physicians, ensuring high standards of care. However, it’s essential to research and choose accredited facilities and experienced medical professionals. It’s wise to do your research and ask questions.

Potential risks include complications from surgery, travel-related issues, communication barriers, and difficulties with follow-up care. Choosing reputable providers and thorough planning can mitigate these risks.

Yes, you are welcome to bring a companion. We can assist with travel and accommodation arrangements for them as well. Having a friend or family member can provide emotional support during your journey. We can also give you a price quote for your companion.

Besides your usual travel essentials, be sure to pack comfortable clothing, any necessary medications (with prescriptions), copies of your medical records, and any specific items recommended by your physician. We will provide you with a detailed packing list before your trip.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact.

STDs are typically spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Some STDs, like herpes and HPV, can be spread through skin-to-skin contact.

Many STDs have no symptoms (asymptomatic). When symptoms are present, they can include unusual discharge, pain or burning during urination, sores, bumps, or rashes in the genital area, and itching.

Many bacterial STDs (like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) can be cured with antibiotics. Viral STDs (like herpes, HIV, and HPV) cannot be cured, but they can be managed with medication.

Abstinence is the only 100% effective way to prevent STDs. Consistent and correct condom use significantly reduces the risk. Limiting your number of sexual partners and getting regular STD testing are also important.

PEP stands for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. It’s a short course of antiretroviral medicines taken very soon after a possible exposure to HIV to prevent the virus from taking hold in your body.

PEP works by stopping the HIV virus from replicating and establishing an infection in your body.

PEP is highly effective at preventing HIV when taken correctly and started as soon as possible. However, it is not 100% effective.

No, PEP only helps prevent HIV. It does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis.

No, PEP and PrEP are different. PEP is for after a potential exposure, while PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is taken before potential exposure to prevent HIV.

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication that can significantly reduce the risk of getting HIV for people who are HIV-negative.

PrEP works by preventing the HIV virus from establishing an infection in your body.

When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective. It reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and from injection drug use by more than 74%.

Most people tolerate PrEP well. Some people experience mild side effects like nausea, headache, or fatigue, which usually go away within a few weeks.

No, PrEP only protects against HIV. It’s important to continue using condoms to protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

IV Therapy is a method of delivering fluids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream via an intravenous (IV) line. This allows for faster and more efficient absorption compared to oral intake.

A small catheter is inserted into a vein, usually in your arm. This is connected to a bag of fluids mixed with the selected vitamins and minerals. The solution then slowly drips into your bloodstream.

A typical session lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the type of drip and the volume of fluids being administered.

You may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, but the process is generally painless. Most people find it relaxing.

When administered by qualified medical professionals in a sterile environment, IV Therapy is generally safe. We will review your medical history to ensure it’s appropriate for you.

Emergency Care is for severe, life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical intervention, such as a heart attack, stroke, severe bleeding, or major trauma. Urgent Care addresses medical issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention within 24 hours, such as minor fractures, infections, or moderate cuts. Our department is equipped to handle the full spectrum of both emergency and urgent conditions.

You should call for an ambulance immediately if you are experiencing a life-threatening condition. This includes symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke (sudden weakness or numbness), severe trauma, or loss of consciousness. Paramedics can provide critical care en route to the hospital. For less severe conditions, you may choose to drive if you can do so safely.

Upon arrival, you will first be evaluated by a triage nurse. Triage is the process of assessing the severity of your medical condition to prioritize patients with the most critical needs. This ensures that patients with life-threatening emergencies are seen first. After triage, you will be registered and then seen by a physician for examination and treatment.

Wait times can vary depending on the number of patients and the severity of their conditions. We see patients based on the clinical urgency determined during triage, not on a first-come, first-served basis. We understand that waiting can be stressful and appreciate your patience as we work to provide the highest quality care to all our patients.

Generally, we encourage having one family member or support person accompany you. However, this may be subject to restrictions based on the patient’s condition, the department’s capacity, and current hospital policies. Please check with our staff upon arrival.