What to Expect at Your First Visit with a Kidney Doctor

Ways to have an efficient and effective visit with your new doctor

Welcome.  Welcome to Dallas Nephrology Associates (DNA) where our focus is on providing you with expert care and evaluation of kidney disorders. Our commitment is to deliver personalized, state-of-the-art care in a setting that is comfortable and convenient to you. 

What is a Nephrologist? 

At your office appointment, you will see a kidney doctor, also known as a nephrologist. A nephrologist is a kidney expert with advanced training in kidney care. Nephrologists are doctors who generally see patients who have been referred by their primary care physician (PCP) for problems related to the kidneys, high blood pressure or certain types of metabolic disorders.

What Happens at Your First Visit?  

During your first visit, your DNA nephrologist will gather important information from you. Your nephrologist will review your medical history, and do a complete physical exam to determine how your kidneys are functioning.

Your nephrologist will order blood and urine tests and a diagnostic imaging of your kidneys may also be required.

Four great tips for your first visit. 

To get you started, consider these tips:

  • Before your first appointment at DNA, please download and fill out our downloadable new patient forms and bring them with you when you come in. These forms can be found at https://www.dneph.com/resources/patient-forms/.
  • Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to your first appointment.   
  • Some helpful items to bring with you include a list of symptoms and how long you have had them, a list of all of your doctors with their contact information, a list of all medications you are taking, insurance information, a driver’s license or another form of photo ID, your medical history, and any other medical records including lab tests and imaging results.
  • Make a list of questions and concerns you have for your nephrologist. 

Your DNA Care Team. 

Depending on your CKD stage and the treatment you choose, you will have different people on your DNA care team. Your DNA care team not only includes an accomplished, board-certified physician, but also consists of capable, caring nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, laboratory and x-ray technologists, dietitians, social workers and administrative personnel. 

We work with your doctor for your best health.

Your PCP cares for your medical needs before you ever become our patient and they will continue to do so afterward. Your PCP oversees your overall health, including any conditions you may have, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. If you have any health concerns outside of kidney disease, you should ask your primary care physician. 

You are on the right track. 

You have made one of the most important steps in the process of understanding your kidneys and kidney disease. At DNA, it is our privilege to provide you with the leading edge, effective and compassionate care that you deserve.  We look forward to seeing you.  If you have any questions, please give us a call.