Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ How do I get my prescriptions renewed when I do not have
any refills?

The Annapolis Collaborative Practice requires all patients to make an appointment for a medication review and treatment renewal.
We ask that you please contact the office to obtain an appointment to renew your prescription(s) at least one week prior to running out of medication to allow time for the pharmacy to process your request. Please allow extra time if you might need blood work before your prescription can be renewed.
Prescription refills for narcotics require an appointment with your family doctor. Call at least 2 weeks prior to running out of your medication for an appointment.

How do I make an appointment?

Contact our office in person or by phone at (902) 532-2324 to book a routine appointment at least 4-8 weeks prior to the date you wish to be seen.
A routine appointment lasts 15 minutes. If you think you will need longer with the doctor or nurse practitioner please indicate this when you book your appointment.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

This varies with each clinician. If you are looking for a routine appointment with your family doctor please allow between 4-8 weeks. If your family doctor or nurse practitioner is not available and you have an urgent medical issue, we can book you in with the next available clinician the same day or next day.

What if my family doctor or nurse practitioner is not available when I want an appointment?

If you have an Emergency please dial 911. If you have an urgent medical problem that cannot wait please proceed to the nearest Emergency Department.
Otherwise you can be booked with the first available doctor or nurse practitioner within the practice.
If you are looking for health advice you can dial 811 (711 for hearing impaired) and speak to a Registered Nurse at any time.

How do I contact Dr. Buchholz?

Call his office, located upstairs at the Annapolis Royal Nursing Home at (902) 532-1670.

How do I get the results of my blood work or tests?

Abnormal results will be seen by a doctor or nurse practitioner who will contact you if needed about any follow up required.
We do not call you with normal results.
If you want to discuss your results you need to make an appointment with your family doctor or nurse practitioner.

Why is it so difficult to get through on the phone or to make an appointment when I want it?

The Annapolis Collaborative Practice is a very busy group practice with nine clinicians; six physicians, a nurse practitioner (NP), and a family practice nurse. We are a teaching environment so periodically have family medicine residents, medical students, and NP students.
The office has four telephone lines that accommodate an average of 125 incoming calls per day. On most days there are several clinicians seeing patients in the office, requiring the receptionist to register the arrival of anywhere from 60-100 patients per day in addition to her other duties.
We would suggest you try calling during quieter times such as Wednesday or Thursday afternoons.

Are you taking on any new patients?

The Annapolis Collaborative Practice physicians and nurse practitioner are not accepting new patients at this time. We do not maintain a waiting list.

What is a Nurse Practitioner and what can he or she do?

A nurse practitioner is a Registered Nurse with an advanced education.
He/she can see patients independently having the knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat your illnesses and health concerns.
He/she can order tests such as x-rays, scans, and ultrasounds.
He/she can order and interpret laboratory and other tests.
He/she can prescribe most medications.

How do I find a family physician?

You can call the Provincial Wait List at 811 or visit the website needafamilypractice.nshealth.ca

What hours do you answer the phones?

What are your office hours?

How long does it take to get forms completed?

Forms are usually completed within one month. The office will contact you when the form is completed and ready for pick up. Upon direction from the patient we can mail or fax the form directly to the associated company.