Patient Policies & Office Guidelines

At Pantry Medicine, we want every patient to feel welcomed, supported, and prepared for their care. The following policies help us maintain a positive experience for our patients while ensuring our office runs smoothly. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Appointment Scheduling

Appointments are scheduled in advance and are subject to availability. Patients are responsible for keeping track of their scheduled appointment dates and times and notifying the office as soon as possible if a change is needed.

Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy

We kindly ask for at least 24 hours' notice when cancelling or rescheduling an appointment. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours' notice may be subject to a late cancellation fee.

We understand that unexpected circumstances arise and appreciate as much advance notice as possible when changes are needed. Providing advance notice also allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient.

Appointment Fees and Payments

Payment for an appointment covers only the specific appointment for which the payment was made.

If an appointment is cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice and a cancellation fee is assessed, that fee is separate from the cost of any future appointment. Payment of a cancellation fee does not cover a new appointment.

Similarly, payment for a scheduled appointment does not automatically transfer to a rescheduled appointment unless the office explicitly approves an exception. A new appointment must be paid for separately.

We appreciate patients understanding that appointment fees are associated with the time reserved specifically for their care.

Payment Due Dates

Appointment fees are due according to the payment arrangements established by the office. Any payment required in advance must be received before the appointment can be confirmed or held.

Patients are responsible for resolving outstanding balances in accordance with office payment policies. If you have questions about a payment or balance, please contact the office.

Late Arrivals

We understand that delays happen. However, arriving late may result in a shortened appointment to avoid delaying other scheduled patients. The full appointment fee may still apply.

If a patient is significantly delayed, the office may need to reschedule the appointment. In these circumstances, the cancellation policy may apply as appropriate.

Missed Appointments

Patients who do not attend a scheduled appointment and have not provided advance notice may be subject to a missed appointment fee.

We understand that unexpected situations can occur. If you are unable to attend your appointment, please contact the office as soon as possible.

Virtual Appointments

Patients scheduled for virtual appointments are responsible for joining their appointment using the provided link at the scheduled time. We recommend logging in a few minutes early to ensure everything is working properly.

If technical difficulties arise, please contact the office as soon as possible. If an appointment cannot proceed due to technical issues, the office will work with the patient to determine the appropriate next steps.

Forms, Records, and Appointment Preparation

To help us make the most of your appointment, we ask that patients complete any requested intake forms and provide relevant medical history, medication lists, supplement lists, and available laboratory results before their appointment.

Providing complete and accurate information helps the practitioner prepare for your visit and make appropriate recommendations. If you are unable to complete requested paperwork before your appointment, please let the office know.

Laboratory Testing and Supplement Recommendations

Laboratory testing and supplement recommendations are individualized based on each patient's needs and the practitioner's clinical judgment.

Additional laboratory testing, supplements, or other services may involve separate fees. Any additional costs will be communicated when applicable.

Privacy and Confidentiality

We take patient privacy seriously. Patient information is handled in accordance with applicable privacy laws and our practice's privacy policies.

Patients are encouraged to use designated communication channels when sharing personal health information.

Minors and Caregiver Communication

A parent or legal guardian may be required to participate in appointments for minor patients and provide appropriate consent for care.

Communication with parents, caregivers, or other designated individuals will be handled in accordance with applicable privacy requirements and patient authorization.

Communication

We welcome questions and communication from our patients. Please contact the office through our designated email address or phone number.

Routine messages will be addressed during regular business hours. We appreciate your patience and will respond as soon as we are able.

Please remember that email and other electronic communication should not be used for urgent medical concerns. Patients experiencing a medical emergency should seek appropriate emergency care.

Respectful Communication

We strive to maintain a welcoming, professional, and respectful environment for everyone. We ask that patients and staff communicate respectfully and work together to support a positive care experience.

Policy Updates

Our office policies and fees may be updated periodically as needed. Patients will be notified of material changes when appropriate. The most current version of our policies will be available through our website.

Thank you for choosing Pantry Medicine. We appreciate the opportunity to be part of your healthcare journey and look forward to working with you!