What is a shared medical appointment?
A shared medical appointment is a 90-minute medical visit with
a physician or nurse practitioner, as necessary, in the company of other patients.
Private discussions and examinations are available as necessary.
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What our patients say about shared
medical appointments
“Hearing other patients' stories
makes me feel like I'm not alone. I feel
supported and encouraged.”
“I felt safe, not
judged.”
Everyone has a chance to share
their stories without pressure and can
be themselves.”
"I was motivated in a group setting
to stick to my goals.”
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What are the advantages of a shared
medical appointment?
Patients have more time with the provider (90 minutes), no waiting room
time, a multidisciplinary care team, and the help and support of other
patients. Patients leave with more information and answers to questions
they might not have thought to ask.
The shared medical appointment helps improve appointment
availability, allows more time for patient education, and is relaxed and
enjoyable.
Is the shared medical
appointment a seminar or
health education class?
No. Many people think the shared medical appointment is a
seminar because of the wealth of information they obtain and the length
of time scheduled. The shared
medical appointment is not a seminar, health education class,
support group, behavioral medicine program or psychiatry group. Rather,
it is an enhanced office visit with the health care provider. The same
medical care, lab result review, medication review and time for
questions that you would experience in a traditional office visit takes
place here.
Once I try a shared medical appointment, must I always visit my
health care provider in a shared medical appointment?
No. The shared medical appointment is an additional health
care choice available to you. Most patients who try a shared
medical appointment want to return, but you always have the option
of an individual appointment with your provider.
What about privacy?
All participants in the shared medical appointment sign a privacy
and confidentiality agreement. Some patients may feel hesitant to share
their questions or speak in the group at first, but then they begin to
enjoy the social interaction and share information that is helpful to
each other.
Will my insurance pay for a shared medical appointment?
The shared medical appointment is the same as
a regular office visit. There is no extra charge for the extra time. It
is billed as a typical office visit and your usual co-pay will apply.
Can I get my medications in a shared medical appointment?
You can do everything at a shared medical appointment that you would at
a regular medical visit. You will leave with prescriptions, referrals,
test results and a plan for ways to improve your health.
Can I bring a family member or friend with me?
Yes. We welcome a family member or support person to attend
the shared medical appointment with you. However, the focus
will be on your medical care and not theirs. Guests are also asked to
sign a confidentiality statement.
How do I schedule a shared medical appointment?
For more information call Gwen LaRiviere at 401-793-7817 or speak with your primary care physician at The Women's Medicine Collaborative.