General FAQ

A good rule of thumb is to call 4-6 months in advance.  If you would like an appointment the week of a school break (ie: spring break, fall break, winter break), call at least six months in advance because those appointments fill up fast! 

If you need to reach us after business hours, call our main office line 865.687.1940.  You will reach an automated system that will provide you with a list of options to direct your call.  It is important to listen to each menu item in full. 

• Dial 865.687.1940.
• Do not leave a message, as they are not checked until the next business day and are for routine prescription refills only.
• Choose the menu option that connects you to Children’s Hospital, where a nurse is ready to take your call.
• If necessary, that nurse will contact a doctor from Black and Benton.  The doctor will then call you back at the number you provide.  Most matters do not require the nurse to contact one of our doctors. 

We allow patients to have unaccompanied appointments when they are 17.  If you have a copay, please arrange prior to the appointment how you will provide payment, whether by calling to pay over the phone or giving your child your preferred payment method.  It is customary to collect a copay at the time of the appointment, whether or not you accompany your child. It is helpful if you are available by cell phone during the appointment if needed.

Unless expressly told by the doctor that the child should not attend, it is always a good idea for them to be there as you discuss topics and issues.  It is important for the doctor to know the child's perspective in experiences relevant to the concern at hand. 

The Patient Information and Consent to Treat forms provide us with information that we are required to update annually in accordance with government and industry guidelines.