COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT TAMPA ALLERGY CENTER - JACK PARRINO MD IN TAMPA, FLORIDA

A. Dr. Parrino typically spends 1 to 1 ½ hours with a new patient to perform a complete history focusing on the patient's current health issues, a physical examination concentrating on the areas of immediate concern, and will then devise a plan for appropriate diagnostic studies, as well as a medication program to help alleviate current symptoms.

 A. At the time of the initial visit Dr. Parrino will determine which diagnostic studies are appropriate and when they should be performed in conjunction with any treatment given. Certain medications such as antihistamines should not be taken for 5 days prior to skin testing yet other medications will not interfere with testing. Prior to the first visit, it would not be appropriate for Dr. Parrino to change a patient's medications who he has not yet seen. The decision as to what testing should be performed and what changes in medication are needed can only be made after his initial evaluation of the patient.

 A. Dr. Parrino is not a pediatrician but he does see children from age 4 on up as long as they have a Pediatrician or Family Doctor who provides their primary care.

 A. He was board certified in Internal Medicine (adult diseases) before he completed his training in 1979 and became board certified in Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

A. Though Allergists have specialized training in Immunotherapy and are famous for treating inhalant allergies with allergy shots, most patient's symptoms can be adequately controlled with a combination of environmental control measures to avoid known allergens and appropriate medications. Immunotherapy is a very effective treatment for inhalant allergies triggering hay fever and asthma, but is typically reserved for those who have significant symptoms not controlled with other measures.

A. Our office participates in most insurance plans, but it is best to check with our office staff as to your specific policy when you call for an appointment. We also encourage our existing patients who are changing their insurance coverage to check with us first, per our participation in any insurance plans they are considering.

A. Our office only accepts Medicare and most Private Insurers. We do not see patients who do not have appropriate coverage.