Emergency appointments: the essential role of the diagnostic approach
There are many reasons for seeking emergency medical attention. Often, the diagnosis is easy to make. On the other hand, when the diagnosis is more complex to establish, medicine sometimes takes time to find solutions and, above all, the right answers.
A diagnosis for every problem
At Clinique LeBlanc + Savaria, we offer fast, courteous emergency service. Depending on the time you contact us, we are able to provide you with a prompt appointment. Out of respect for the medical team and other patients, you are given a time slot during which the doctor concentrates on the main reason for the consultation. Each problem is treated independently. That’s why you’ll be offered a longer appointment if your condition requires the examination of several issues, each of which requires a unique diagnostic approach.
When follow-up is necessary
After asking you a few questions and following the examination, the doctor may suggest that you undergo further tests (swabs, X-rays, etc.) on what he believes to be the most plausible hypothesis, which would explain your symptoms. If these tests are negative, he may ask to see you again. In some cases, the doctor may also suggest that you undergo a medical check-up to obtain an overall picture of your state of health. The more in-depth the diagnostic process, the more follow-up is required. Although there are costs associated with each step in this process, it’s by making a complete and accurate diagnosis that the doctor will be able to treat you effectively. And, in the long run, it’s YOU who stands to gain.
A concrete example
A simple cold brings you to an emergency appointment because it’s dragged on and on, and turned into sinusitis. We have the cause (the cold), and we have the result (sinusitis). The diagnosis is relatively easy. However, if you return to the doctor with a sinus infection that persists despite antibiotics, or if you suffer from chronic sinusitis and regular headaches, the doctor will certainly want to investigate further. Is your sinusitis caused by an allergy or dental abscess? Are your headaches caused by your sinusitis, or are they the result of a different problem? Sometimes one ailment hides another. That’s when multiple diagnoses are needed.
For more information or to book an appointment, please contact us.
