New Patients' Frequently Asked Questions

We have found that many of our new patients have the same questions when they first come to us. Perhaps the answers to the following frequently asked questions will provide a quick answer to some of your questions.

Q: What can I expect at my first appointment at SPLC?

A: Your first appointment is an initial consultation only. You will not be staying overnight in our sleep study center, nor would we do any kind of surgery or other treatment for a lung condition.

Bring your medical history form (downloaded from the Business Office section of this site, or mailed to you). We will spend about an hour going over this and talking to you about your symptoms. From this and possibly a few preliminary tests we will determine the need for additional diagnostic tests, or make a recommendation for a treatment program for your condition.

Q: What should I bring with to my first appointment with SPLC?

A: If your appointment will be at least one week after you set it, we will mail you a packet of information confirming the time, place and length of your appointment. Please read this information carefully as it gives you specific instructions on what to bring to your appointment. Since this varies by patient, you will need to get that information from your confirmation letter or when you make your appointment with us on the phone.

Q: Where will I go if I need to have a sleep study performed?

A: We have our own sleep study center at our downtown office location in the St. Paul Heart & Lung Center. However, depending upon your needs, insurance and other preferences, you may also go to our sleep study facilities at St. Joseph 's Hospital in downtown St. Paul, Woodwinds Hospital in Woodbury, or Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater.

Q: Do I need a physician's referral to get insurance coverage for my visit with you?

A: Possibly. You will need to check with your insurance provider to find out how they cover specialist care. Be sure to bring your insurance card with you to your first appointment, too.

Q: Where are your offices?

A: SPLC has two offices. One is in downtown St. Paul on Smith Ave., next door to United Hospital. The other is in north suburban Maplewood on the St. John's Hospital campus. You can make an appointment to see any of our doctors at either location. (Go to our "Contact Us" page for directions to both.)

Q: Is there parking for your office on Smith Avenue in St. Paul?

A: Yes, there is a handicapped-accessible parking garage directly across the street from our Smith Avenue clinic. SPLC will cover your parking expenses in the ramp for up to two hours. You can also use our U-shaped building driveway to be dropped off right at our building door.