What to Expect

Arriving at Mayo Clinic

Unless instructed otherwise, please check in at Patient Registration in the main lobby of the Davis Building when you arrive.

Volunteers assist patients in finding their way.

Non-Mayo Medical Records

Mayo Clinic will accept and may review written medical records, radiology films or other materials from other health-care institutions if related to your medical care at Mayo. However, permanent storage is not available for non-Mayo medical records that you may bring for your visit. If you wish to retain your non-Mayo records for your personal files, please bring a duplicate set to your appointment. Photocopies you submit will not be returned. Non-Mayo radiology films will be returned to you unless a Mayo physician requests they be stored in our files.

Length of Your Visit

No two patient visits are exactly alike. The length of your stay will depend on the number of tests ordered and the complexity of your medical conditions. It's our goal to schedule your appointments so that your evaluation won't be unnecessarily delayed. In some cases a return visit may be necessary. Please note that outpatients are not seen at Mayo Clinic on Saturdays, Sundays and some holidays.

Reception Desks

You will be assigned to a specific reception desk and building where your Mayo physician is located. Desks are identified by floor and direction. For example, Desk 2 West is on the second floor. Desk 4 North is on the fourth floor. Keep note of whether its location is in the Cannaday Building, Davis Building or Mayo Building. Your assigned desk will be your home base at Mayo. Be sure to tell the desk attendant where you are staying in Jacksonville. Wayfinding maps and signs are mounted on walls or hang from ceilings at corridor intersections and throughout the campus.

How to Dress

Informal clothing and a comfortable pair of shoes are appropriate for your visit, and you should place comfort ahead of appearance. Lightweight clothing is suggested during the summer months, when the days can be hot and humid. However, a sweater for use in air-conditioned buildings might come in handy. Also, summer rain showers are frequent, so don't forget an umbrella.

Pastimes

During your time at Mayo, you will likely have waiting periods between appointments. Many patients plan ahead by bringing reading or writing material, handwork or supplies for other activities that help pass the time. Volunteers at information desks can provide information about shopping and local attractions.

Friends and Relatives

Friends and relatives are welcome to accompany you to Mayo Clinic. They will be asked to remain in the waiting areas, unless there are special reasons for them to stay with you during the examinations and tests.