Your Visit

What to Expect as a New Patient

We welcome you to the spine clinic, and look forward to addressing your spinal problems.

Dr. Katsuura will analyze your problem by considering all aspects of your history. Prior to your visit consider the following:

What seems to be bothering you the most? Although you may have many different symptoms, which ones seems to be bothering you the most? Its important to understand surgery is a focused discipline, and no single procedure will cure all aches and pains. Preparing the patient questionnaire (see below) can help you format and think about your problem so the doctor can have a good idea of whats wrong.

What are my goals for the visit? Is it to get a diagnosis, discuss treatment options or both?

Only through effective communication will we get to the heart of the matter.

Preparing for Your Visit

Your visit time is valuable. Make the most of it by coming prepared with the following checklist.

  • Have I read the new patient welcome letter?

  • Have I filled out the new patient questionnaire?

  • Is my medical imaging prepared? Dr. Katsuura requires all new patients to have a recent Spine MRI and a set of x-rays.

Remember to wear loose fitting clothing and shoes that can easily be removed for the physical exam.

Although Dr Katsuura strives to be on time, please bring a book or magazine in case there is a wait.

If you have any questions about these requirements please contact us at info@katsuuramd.com

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • In an effort to increase access to care, Dr. Katsuura now sees patients out of Novato, Ukiah and Willits. Please call the main office at 415-697-8659 to confirm the location of your visit prior to arrival.

  • This varies from day to day depending on emergency procedures. We typically try to have patients wait only 10-15 minutes but sometimes this may be longer. If you are expected to have a longer wait time we may try to contact you so you can plan accordingly or reschedule.

  • We focus primarily on problems involving the spine and so patients with back and neck issues are the most common. Dr. Katsuura treats the full spectrum of spinal disease ranging from fractures, deformity, tumors and degenerative conditions.

  • Being seen by Dr. Katsuura typically requires a referral from your primary care physician. In general, we require you to have a spinal MRI and x-rays to be completed prior to your appointment. Emergent or urgent cases are seen earlier. Give us a call at 707-456-3062 or email us at info@katsuuramd.com for more information.

  • We see Partnership/MediCal patients at the Ukiah clinic

Contact Us to Learn More

Send us an email to schedule an appointment