Frequently Asked Questions
Can I come in for just a consultation or do I have to get tested for allergies?
Your doctor will sit down with you after an initial history is taken to determine the best course of action for your individual needs. Sometimes it is not necessary to test based on history and symptoms.
Do I need to be referred by another physician?
Whether you need a referral or not is dependent upon your insurance plan. Check your plan details to determine if a referral is required to see a specialist, such as an allergist.
What is the youngest age my child can be seen or tested by an allergist?
Our doctors are trained and experienced in pediatrics so they can see children from the earliest ages that allergy-like symptoms first appear. The age at which our doctors test for environmental and food allergies varies on the severity and the nature of the child's symptoms. Often a very young child will be tested for food allergies earlier than environmental allergies. It is unusual for pollen allergies to develop in children under two years of age, but pet allergy or dust and mold allergy can develop much earlier.
What if I am unable to get off my medication or I forget?
If you are having hives or unbearable allergy symptoms, please keep taking the medication and you will have an opportunity to visit with the doctor to decide what the best course of action would be.
How long is the waiting period for a new patient visit?
The waiting time for a new patient visit can vary slightly, depending on availability and current medications, but we are generally able to schedule appointments within 6-8 weeks.
If I'm put on allergy shots, do they have to be done in your office?
Allergy shots do not have to be performed in our office. In most cases, once the shot vials are mixed, you can go to your regular primary care physician or other doctor to have your allergy shots administered. We do require that the initial shots for an immunotherapy regimen are administered in our office.
Can I give the allergy shots myself?
Because of the possibility for a severe systemic reaction, we require allergy injections to be administered in a physician's office. They are trained in proper procedures to respond to severe allergic reactions.
How long does it take to get my customized allergy serums after they are ordered?
New allergy serum vials will be ready for administration within 7 to 10 business days.
When will my insurance be billed for new allergy serums and/or shots?
New allergy serums will not be billed to your health insurance company until after the vials are made. Allergy shots will be billed to insurance within 14 days after shots are administered in one of our offices.
If I transfer from another office, do I have to be retested?
In most cases, our doctors are able to use the results from a previous allergy testing panel. The ability to use these prior results will depend on several factors, including the method of testing used and the length of time since your last allergy test. After taking your history, the doctor will sit down with you to decide what the best option for you would be.
Are allergy shots covered by insurance?
Allergy shots are typically covered by most health insurance plans. Coverage amounts vary based on your specific insurance plan. If you have insurance, you may have to meet your deductible before insurance will cover allergy shots. You may also have a copay for each doctor visit. We recommend contacting your insurance company to inquire about your deductible, what coverage you have for allergy serums, preparation, and administration of allergy shots. Also inquire about what your out-of-pocket expenses may be. Our front office will gladly provide you with an estimate of anticipated costs for allergy shots.
What is the time commitment involved with getting allergy shots?
An allergy shot appointment will usually take 5-10 minutes. Additionally, you must stay in the clinic or in the parking lot for 30 minutes after your shot to avoid any serious adverse reactions. You will have to call or text the shot room after you have waited 30 minutes on-site. This regimen also requires meeting with your physician annually to monitor your progress appropriately.
Why do I have wait on-site for 30 minutes after getting my allergy shots?
Each allergy shot contains a tiny amount of the specific substance or substances that trigger your allergic reactions. These are called allergens. The allergens are given in gradually increasing doses throughout the treatment period. Most serious reactions develop within 30 minutes of receiving allergy injections. Serious reactions to allergy shots are uncommon, but they do happen sometimes. Symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction can include facial swelling, swelling in the throat, wheezing or tightness in the chest, nausea, and dizziness. When these symptoms do occur, they require immediate medical attention. When you are on the premises, we can provide immediate emergency treatment. Our staff is fully trained on how to treat patients suffering anaphylaxis. This is why you must wait in our office for at least 30 minutes after you receive allergy shots.