Ergent Care now has allergy testing available in our clinic.  We talked to Tiffany from United Allergy labs about what can be expected with your first visit and the many benefits allergy treatments can bring.

EC: Hi Tiffany, what would you say is the main mission of United Allergy Labs?
Tiffany: To improve the quality of life for our allergy patients.

EC: What can people expect when they come to you for the first time?
Tiffany: On their initial visit, patients will first be examined by a physician to make sure they are a candidate for allergen immunotherapy.  If they meet our criteria I will perform a 15 minute skin test.  After the test is done, I will go over test results and treatment options.

EC: Should everyone be tested for allergies? Why or why not?
Tiffany: The people we would like to be tested is people with allergy related issues, such as ear infections, sinusitis, asthma, headaches and even pneumonia.  Most people don’t realize how many illnesses they suffer from are due to allergies. Most people that come into our clinic with upper respiratory issues (congestion, cough, drainage) are probably due to allergies.

EC: What is involved with getting tested for allergies? Does it hurt?
Tiffany: Before being tested we have paperwork that has to be filled out. This includes a consent form for testing, medical history, and allergy history.  I will perform a fifteen  minute non-invasive skin test. I use a skin tester that has actual allergens on the tip of the tester.  Each tester contains ten different allergens. The testers are applied on the inner top part of your arms.  It is a simple prick and does not hurt.  The worst part of the test is the irritation due to allergens, which includes redness, itching, and red mosquito-like bumps.

EC: Are there certain allergies I’ll be tested for?
Tiffany: Each patient is tested for 48 different allergens that are the most predominant allergens in this area.

EC: How long will the test take?  Will I have to wait very long to get the results?
Tiffany: From the beginning to end, it takes about forty-five minutes to get tested.  Your results will be given to you that day and the doctor and I will go over results and treatment options.

EC: What is immunotherapy?  Is it safe?
Tiffany: Allergen Immunotherapy is a 200 year old treatment plan for allergies. What immunotherapy does is change your immune system to allergens. What we do is start with a small dose of allergy shots tailored to what you allergic to. Over time we build up your dosage till you are desensitized to your allergens.  It is the only treatment that gets rid of your allergies.

EC: How effective is immunotherapy in dealing with allergens?
Tiffany: Our patients have a 85% success rate of decreasing symptoms or completely getting rid of them all together.

EC: Is allergy testing typically covered by insurance?
Tiffany: Most insurance carriers cover treatment at 80 – 100%. We waive co-insurance and most patients are just responsible for their copay and deductibles. I check insurance and go over cost before patients are treated.

EC: What do I need to do to sign up?
Tiffany: The only thing you need to do is come in and talk to me. You can call me Monday – Friday from 8 – 5 at 918-299-4333 and I will answer any questions you may have and get you set up with the best treatment option for you.

So what are you waiting for?  Call today and take a step toward an allergy-free life!