Learn what to expect from your first appointment at Duke Voice Care Center.

Do I need to arrive before my appointment time?

Yes. Please arrive about 15 minutes before your appointment time in order to complete your new patient form and the voice intake form. To save time, you can complete them in advance and bring them to your appointment. Download the patient forms

Where do I go to see the doctor?

Your appointment will either be at Duke at the Duke Otolaryngology, Head and Neck, ENT in the Purple Zone of Clinic 1H or it will be in Raleigh at Duke Otolaryngology of Raleigh.

Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?

Bring any medical information relating to the reason for your visit, and a list of medications you are taking. Also, bring any applicable patient forms.

Preoperative/Operative

How will I know if my insurance company has approved my surgery?

Once the surgery is scheduled, the preregistration office personnel proceed with obtaining appropriate authorizations. The patient and the physician’s office will be notified before your surgery day if there are any problems with your insurance.

What is the purpose of a preoperative work up?

The preoperative work up allows us to review your medical history and medications, examine you, and clear you medically for your surgical procedure. We also make sure you are capable of undergoing anesthesia.

Can I eat the day of my preoperative work up?

Yes. There are no nutritional limitations to observe on the day of your work up.

Do I need to discontinue any medications in preparation for my surgery?

If you are on any blood thinners such as Coumadin or aspirin, these will need to be discontinued for approximately seven days prior to your surgery. Some patients will need to be switched to another medication during this time, and others will need to discontinue it altogether. This will be coordinated with your physician who prescribes those medications.

Will I be given any medications after my surgery?

It is likely that you will be given antibiotics and/or pain medications after your surgery.  These prescriptions will be given to you when you leave the hospital.

Botox Injections for Voice Disorders

How often do you have a BOTOX clinic?

Approximately every four to six weeks.

Does the injection hurt?

The botulinum toxin A (BOTOX) is injected through a very thin needle, and although every patient differs, it is not usually associated with a significant amount of pain.

How long will my injection last?

Most patients have improvement in their voice for about three months. Some patients, however, experience an improved voice for up to a year.

Can I talk to some of your other patients who have undergone BOTOX injections?

Yes. We will be happy to put you in contact with other patients who have had botulinum toxin A injections for a voice disorder.

Will my insurance cover botulinum toxin A injections for my voice disorder?

Yes. While lots of botulinum toxin A treatments are considered cosmetic, treatment for spasmodic dysphonia with botulinum toxin A is not for cosmetic purposes, and is covered by most insurance companies.

Prescriptions

Can I get a prescription refill called in for me without coming to see the doctor?

This is possible, depending upon what the prescription is and how long it has been since you have seen the doctor. If you are a patient of Dr. Cohen’s, call 919-681-7350. If you are a patient of Dr. Scher's, call 919-681-8069. If you are a patient of Dr. Witsell's, call 919-668-6065.