What to Expect at Your First Primary Care Visit: A Complete Guide
Starting with a new primary care provider can feel overwhelming but understanding what to expect—and how to prepare—can transform your first visit from anxiety-inducing to confidence-building.
At Hoag Medical Group, we’ve designed our patient process to ensure you receive the comprehensive attention you deserve from day one.
Here, Dr. Julie Matsuura, medical director of the Hoag Medical Group, walks you through what to expect at your first visit.
Before Your Visit: Setting Yourself Up for Success
Scheduling your appointment
First-time visits are always pre-scheduled to provide the appropriate time and attention required.
You can schedule online at hoagmedicalgroup.com or call your chosen location directly.
This dedicated scheduling ensures your physician has adequate time to understand your health history and establish a strong foundation for your ongoing care.
If you don’t already have a MyChart account, you can create one when scheduling your appointment or by visiting HoagConnect.org.
MyChart allows you to complete paperwork, view test results, message your provider, and manage appointments.
Before your appointment
First, you’ll want to complete pre-visit paperwork via MyChart.
Fill out new patient forms and visit-specific questionnaires. These will be automatically sent to you through MyChart seven days prior to your appointment.
Update your medical history, medications, allergies, and immunizations.
This saves time during your visit and allows your physician to review your information beforehand.
Medical Records Transfer
Take ownership of your health history by completing the Records Request available on Hoag MyChart.
Follow the process in MyChart by selecting “Request Records” to initiate the transfer.
Remember: You must initiate medical records transfers; we can’t do this for you.
During Your Visit: What Makes Hoag Different
Hoag Medical Group is here to meet you where you are. There’s no need to schedule an appointment just to “establish care.” Your visit—whatever the reason—is the beginning of a trusted relationship with your primary care physician.
Every patient’s first visit is unique—and that’s exactly how we approach it—whether you’re due for an annual physical, new to HMG, need a medication refill, experiencing a health concern or feeling sick and need care now.
Our providers take the time to understand your current health needs and long-term goals. Whether it’s a comprehensive assessment or focused care for an immediate issue, we’re committed to delivering personalized, thoughtful care every time.
What to bring to your first appointment
Before heading to your appointment, make sure the following details are up to date in your MyChart account or bring them with you to your appointment:
Completed pre-visit paperwork (via MyChart)
Insurance card
Valid Photo ID
Note your medical information
List of current medications (preferably in pharmacy containers)
Medical records including immunization records that have not already been transferred via MyChart
Make a list of health priorities and concerns
Be prepared to discuss your top health concerns, priorities, and preferences. This is your opportunity to explain anything significantly unique about your health. Candid disclosures help your physician provide the most appropriate care.
Candid health discussion
Your visit is the time to be completely honest about your health concerns, lifestyle, and any unique circumstances. Hoag physicians create a judgment-free environment where candid disclosures lead to better understanding and more effective treatment plans.
Care coordination planning
If you’re in the middle of medical treatment or have scheduled procedures, inform your physician immediately. Hoag’s network allows seamless continuity of care, ensuring no gaps in your treatment while transitioning to our comprehensive system.
Scheduling Online
When booking your initial visit online, selecting the correct appointment type ensures you get the care you need. Here’s a quick guide for new patients:
New Patient – Initial Visit
For all reasons except sick visits. This includes medication refills, chronic condition management, preventive care, or discussing new health concerns. This visit begins your relationship with your provider.
Office Visit
For follow-up care or ongoing management of a known condition. Ideal if you’ve already seen your provider and need continued support.
Urgent Sick Visit
For immediate care needs such as illness, injury, or sudden symptoms. Same-day availability offered.
Annual Wellness Visit
For Medicare patients focused on preventive care, health goals, and screenings. Does not include a physical exam.
Annual Physical Exam
For non-Medicare patients, this includes a full preventive check-up, screenings, and lab work based on age and risk factors.
The Hoag Advantage: Why Your First Visit Matters More Here
What sets Hoag apart isn’t just thoroughness—it’s immediate access to a comprehensive network. From your first visit, you have:
Seamless specialist access: Direct referrals within Hoag’s network of 400+ specialists
Integrated services: On-site or nearby imaging, lab, and physical therapy
24/7 support: Nurse advice line available around the clock
Coordinated care: Your physician communicates directly with all Hoag specialists and facilities
Your first visit establishes more than a doctor-patient relationship; it opens the door to Orange County’s most comprehensive healthcare network, ensuring you never have to navigate complex medical needs alone.
Unlike practices where you’re just another appointment, Hoag’s first visit is designed to understand you as a whole person and connect you with resources that support your complete health and wellness journey.
