Cost of office consultation by state

What is considered a medical consultation?

A medical consultation is when a doctor provides medical care or services to a patient during a doctor’s appointment. It also includes any advice your doctor or other medical professionals give.

You may be seen by a doctor, a physician’s assistant, or a nurse practitioner during your medical consultation. There are two types of medical consultations: An initial consultation and a standard consultation.

What is an initial consultation?

An initial consultation is for new patients only. It allows you to meet with a new doctor and discuss your medical problems or other health concerns. You’ll also discuss your health goals and treatment options for any care you might need.

The initial consultation is for you and your doctor to get to know one another. It is also when you provide your doctor with your background health information needed for further consultations and treatments. You may need to fill out forms or bring insurance information to your initial consultation.

What is a standard consultation?

A standard consultation includes the routine medical care and advice you need to manage or treat your medical condition. You’ll meet with your doctor or another medical provider to help maintain your overall well being, monitor any chronic conditions, and prevent the development of additional health problems.

Standard consultations are used for your physical health, as well as your mental health when meeting with psychologists or psychiatrists. They may include assessments through questionnaires, lab work, or physical examination.

What do they do at a consultation?

During your consultation, a medical professional will talk with you about your health and may perform medical services to diagnose or treat you. Consultations are used to perform routine checkups, treat acute and chronic illnesses, and prevent disease.

Your doctor may have you change into a medical gown so they can perform a physical examination of your body. A nurse may check your weight, blood pressure, and heart rate before the consultation with your doctor begins. You may also need blood drawn for tests to monitor your health.

These procedures allow your medical team to track your health over time and look for changes. Your doctor may prescribe additional tests, treatments, or medications during your consultation.

How long is a consultation?

Your consultation will vary in length depending on why you are visiting. Consultations requiring physical exams take longer, and patients dealing with multiple or complex health problems need more time than others. You can expect your consultation to last from 40 to 60 minutes.

What is the difference between outpatient and office visit?

The main difference between outpatient and office visits is the cost. You’ll receive the same care from your doctor regardless of the facility being used, but outpatient facilities sometimes charge patients additional hospital affiliation fees.

Your doctor’s office could be affiliated with a hospital even if their office has a separate location. Check with your doctor's office before scheduling your consultation if you’re concerned about fees.