What should I confirm before traveling to a clinic?

Verify the appointment date, clinician, location, referral or authorization requirements, arrival instructions, accessibility arrangements, and records the clinic needs.

Can a clinic obtain records from my prior provider?

Some offices can help, but confirm their process and authorization requirements. Ask how records should be sent securely and whether you should bring copies.

How can I request an interpreter or accommodation?

Contact the clinic in advance, describe the arrangement you need, and ask how it will be confirmed for the appointment. Requirements and available services can vary by setting.

Before a Clinic Appointment: Accessibility, Referral, and Records Checklist

October 3, 2026 · Patient guide · 2 min read

A directory listing may help you find a clinic, but several details should be settled before the visit. Confirm the appointment and location directly, especially if a health system has multiple campuses, buildings, or departments with similar names.

Confirm prerequisites

Ask whether the clinic requires a referral, prior authorization, new-patient forms, imaging, laboratory results, or records from another provider. Find out who is responsible for sending each item and when it must arrive. If you are unsure whether a requirement applies, ask the clinic to confirm rather than assuming.

Plan access and communication

Tell the clinic about mobility, hearing, vision, language, sensory, or other communication needs and ask how they will be accommodated. Confirm building access, parking or transit, the entrance to use, check-in time, and whether a support person may attend. Contact the office early enough to resolve any arrangements.

Transfer records securely

Ask which records are needed and how to send them. Confirm the correct clinician and location before authorizing a transfer. If you bring copies, keep originals where possible and follow the clinic's guidance for medication or device information.

Reconfirm close to the appointment

Check the date, time, clinician, address, arrival instructions, and any changes to preparation. Save the office phone number and ask what to do if you are delayed or cannot attend. Insurance questions should be checked with the plan and clinic separately.

CMS's National Provider Directory supports provider discovery, while the clinic confirms current appointment logistics. Use our provider directory to find options, then call to confirm these practical details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I confirm before traveling to a clinic?: Verify the appointment date, clinician, location, referral or authorization requirements, arrival instructions, accessibility arrangements, and records the clinic needs.
Can a clinic obtain records from my prior provider?: Some offices can help, but confirm their process and authorization requirements. Ask how records should be sent securely and whether you should bring copies.
How can I request an interpreter or accommodation?: Contact the clinic in advance, describe the arrangement you need, and ask how it will be confirmed for the appointment. Requirements and available services can vary by setting.