Preparing for your visit
What to bring, what happens at the first appointment, and how the plan is made.
- 01Request a visitCall the office or use the booking link to choose a time.
- 02Bring your recordsImaging, prior reports and a medication list help make the first visit useful.
- 03Examination and discussionAn exam and a plain explanation of what is going on.
- 04Decide togetherThe options are laid out so you can choose the plan that fits.
Do I need a referral to schedule a visit?
Not necessarily. Many patients come to Dr. McMillan through a referral from another physician or physical therapist, but you can also call and schedule directly.
Your insurance plan determines whether a referral is required, and the front desk can confirm this for you when you call.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Bring four things: a photo ID, your insurance card, a current list of your medications, and copies or results of any recent imaging or test results related to your symptoms.
If a physician referred you, bring that paperwork too.
What happens during my first visit?
First, you will talk with Dr. McMillan about your symptoms: when they started, what brings them on, and what makes them better or worse.
Dr. McMillan's practice centers on sports medicine and on pinpointing the source of low back pain, neck pain, sciatica, and cervical radiculopathy, so the exam is built around identifying which structure is generating your pain before any treatment is discussed. He completed fellowship training in arthroscopic sports medicine at the University of Massachusetts in Worcester, Massachusetts, and that same exam first, structure first approach carries into how he evaluates spine and nerve symptoms.
Will I need imaging before I come in?
Not always. If you already have X-rays, an MRI, or other imaging, bringing copies will speed up your visit, but Dr. McMillan can order new imaging after the exam if it is needed.
What happens after my first visit?
After the exam, Dr. McMillan will explain what he believes is causing your symptoms and walk through next steps with you.
Most low back pain, neck pain, and sciatica settle with non-surgical care, such as activity changes, physical therapy, or steroid injections. Surgery comes into the conversation only when those options have not worked.
Who do I call with questions before my appointment?
Call the office at Dr. Sean McMillan Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Burlington Township.
The front desk can answer questions about scheduling and insurance, tell you what to bring, and confirm whether your plan requires a referral.
This page is educational and is not a substitute for medical advice from your doctor.
Ready to talk about your hip, knee and shoulder?
Call the office or request an appointment. Accepting new patients.