If you are an international patient trying to request an appointment online, you will first need to select your language from the list under the “Request an Appointment” button, and follow the instructions on the subsequent page(s). Don’t make an official appointment request until you have spoken with your insurance provider and primary care physician.
The Rochester, Minnesota campus is the flagship Mayo Clinic institution, offering the widest variety of services from the largest number of physicians. Due to the typically cold, harsh winter weather conditions, the Rochester, Minnesota campus is less likely to be busy than the other two during the winter season; this may mean a shorter waiting period.
You will need to have relevant information readily available when completing the patient information form. This includes birth date, address, insurance information, and details regarding the patient’s medical condition. Supporting information about tests, x-rays or other diagnostics is also requested. Once you have finished the form, click “Send Request” at the bottom of the page. A Mayo Clinic representative will contact you (usually within a few business days) to review additional financial and medical information before you’re offered an appointment.
When you call, be sure to have all relevant patient information ready, which includes the information listed for the online scheduling procedure. You are no more or less likely to get an appointment by calling versus scheduling online, and the waiting period is the same.
You may be able to see a doctor more quickly if you are a “walk-in” patient; these waiting times can still take a week or more (depending on how many people cancel and the severity of your illness). Don’t wait to receive medical attention if you are seriously ill. If your condition worsens while you are waiting, see your doctor and request a referral to Mayo if you haven’t already been given one. This could “fast-track” your appointment.
Previous X-rays, test results, and all other relevant information should also be included with your records.
Ask first whether you think you may need to see a specialist for your condition. If your doctor says ‘yes,’ then you can ask her whether Mayo Clinic might be a good choice for you. Alternatively, you can do your own research to figure this out.
If specialty services are more important to your needs than facility location, you find out which specialties are handled at which facilities by visiting the Mayo Clinic website. [7] X Research source
Your primary care doctor is probably in a better position than you to make this assessment; it is always best to consult a doctor before making serious decisions about your healthcare. Consider whether your condition warrants traveling to a Mayo Clinic facility for treatment. This can be time-consuming and potentially expensive, so you should take this matter seriously.
Though most patients are able to schedule their appointments themselves, some insurance companies require that you receive a physician’s referral before they will agree to cover your treatment at Mayo Clinic. Contact your insurance company to find out their policy. Even if your insurance company does not require that you receive a referral, some specialty areas within May Clinic might. This is why it is important to contact Mayo Clinic before scheduling an appointment.
