Ready to Call? What to expect?

Fellow Aviators,

Wondering what happens when you call 406-426-1901? The answer is, my cell phone rings and you either get me or my voicemail. No receptionist. No front desk staff. No automated phone tree. When was the last time you called a medical office and got the doctor directly? :-)

If you get my voicemail, my apologies. It's likely that I am either working my "day job" seeing patients in the hospital or flying an old single-engine Cessna. I try to return calls within 24 hours, but occasionally I wander out of cell phone service, at which point it may take longer. If you do not hear back from me within a few days, please don't hesitate to call back.

What about text message? I find that coordinating these exams becomes rather inefficient over text message. I would very much prefer a phone call.

Once I have you on the phone you can expect me to ask:

• When your medical certification is due for renewal?

• Which class of medical certification are you seeking?

• What health related issues do you have now and in the past?

• Have you ever been in trouble with the law such as a DUI?

• When can you come in to see me?

From time to time, these phone calls can be lengthy, but I've noticed that the more preparation we put in over the phone, the more likely it is that you will walk out of my office with a medical certificate on the day of your exam.

Due to my limited availability, calling earlier increases the chances of securing a suitable time slot. And while I will occasionally open up additional time on the weekends and evenings, calling sooner rather than later will almost always result in finding a mutually acceptable time to get you medical certification done. So what are you waiting for? Call today!

Cheers,

Matthew