A useful conversation
starts here.

Start with a call.

Call the practice to discuss an evaluation with Dr. Houle. A useful starting point is a brief description of your symptoms, how long they have been present, and what they are keeping you from doing.

The office can confirm the appointment process, referral requirements and the appropriate way to provide records.

Questions to ask the office.

1. Referrals and coverage

   Does my plan require a referral? Is Dr. Houle participating in my plan, and are there any steps I should complete before scheduling?

2. Imaging and records

   Which reports and images would be useful? Do you need the actual MRI or CT images as well as the written report, and how should I provide them?

3. Preparing for the visit

   What should I bring, and what happens after my information is received?

Make the conversation useful.

Bring a short history of the problem, the treatments you have tried and how they helped, your current medication list, and the activities you hope to return to. Follow the office’s instructions about which records to supply and how to send them.

An evaluation is an opportunity to understand the problem and discuss reasonable options, including nonsurgical care.

Already scheduled for surgery?

Your care team’s written instructions guide your preparation. Dr. Houle’s videos provide another way to understand the planned procedure.

For referring clinicians and colleagues.

For patient referrals, call the office to confirm the current referral and records pathway. For teaching, speaking or industry inquiries, call the same number and ask how to direct a professional inquiry to Dr. Houle.