Your First Visit
What to Expect When You See Dr. Chavarria
Knowing what's ahead makes the first appointment easier. Here's exactly how your visit will go, start to finish.
1
Before your visit
- Call or use our online form to request an appointment — most plans don't require a referral, but check with your insurer.
- Gather copies of any spine imaging you've had (MRI, CT, or X-ray) on disc — the images themselves, not just the reports — plus a list of your medications.
- Routine consultations are typically scheduled within about one to two weeks. Tell us if you have rapidly worsening weakness or bowel/bladder changes so we can prioritize you sooner.
2
When you arrive
- You'll check in at the front desk when you arrive. Allow a few extra minutes for parking and new-patient paperwork.
- You're welcome to bring a spouse, family member, or friend — a second set of ears helps, and Dr. Chavarria encourages it.
3
During your visit
- Dr. Chavarria reviews your history and performs a focused neurological exam to pinpoint the source of your symptoms.
- He'll pull up your MRI and X-rays and walk through them with you on the screen, in plain language, so you can see what he sees.
- You'll get a clear explanation of every reasonable option — conservative and surgical — with no pressure to choose surgery.
4
After your visit
- You'll leave with clear next steps — whether that's therapy, an injection, further imaging, or a surgical consultation.
- If surgery is recommended, you'll get a detailed walk-through of the procedure, risks, benefits, and recovery before you decide anything.
- Our team coordinates referrals, scheduling, and follow-up so nothing falls through the cracks.
Traveling from out of the area?
If you're coming a long way for your appointment, let our team know — we'll do our best to make your consultation as efficient as possible.