Hi! I’m Georgiana, and I’m back with a new episode of the Speak English Now podcast—the podcast that helps you speak English fluently, with no grammar and no textbooks.

Today we're beginning a new series—four episodes designed to prepare you for going to the doctor.

Why this topic? Well, the truth is simple. At some point, whether you live abroad, travel, or study in another country, you will need medical care. And the very first step is usually the same: booking an appointment.

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Useful Vocabulary and Expressions

When you phone a clinic or a doctor's office, you usually speak with the receptionist or someone in the scheduling department. Here are some very common and practical phrases you'll need:

"I'd like to make an appointment."

It’s the standard and polite way to begin.

"Do you have any openings this week?"

Openings means available times.

"What is the earliest appointment available?"

Use this if you need the soonest possible option.

"I'd like to see Dr. Smith, if possible."

If you already know the doctor's name, you can request them directly.

"I need to cancel my appointment."

Or: "I'd like to reschedule my appointment."

"Is this covered by insurance?"

In the US especially, it's common to ask if the visit is paid for by your insurance.

Questions You May Hear

The receptionist will also ask you some questions. Here are the most common:

"What is the reason for your visit?"

You can answer simply: "I have a fever," or "It's just a check-up," or "I need a prescription refill."

"Do you have insurance?"

You can say: "Yes, I do," or "No, I will pay out of pocket." (Out of pocket means you'll pay the full cost yourself.)

"Do you need a referral?"

In the US, sometimes your family doctor must give you permission to see a specialist.

Realistic Examples

Example 1 – Routine Check-up

Receptionist: "Good morning. City Clinic. How can I help you?"

Patient: "Hello, I'd like to make an appointment with Dr. Lee."

Receptionist: "What is the reason for your visit?"

Patient: "It's just a routine check-up."

Receptionist: "Okay, Dr. Lee is available next Thursday at 2 p.m. Does that work?"

Patient: "Yes, that's fine. Thank you."

Example 2 – Urgent Situation

Patient: "Hello, I feel very sick. I'd like to see a doctor as soon as possible."

Receptionist: "I'm sorry to hear that. We don't have same-day appointments, but we can see you tomorrow morning at 9 a.m."

Patient: "Yes, tomorrow morning is fine. Thank you."

Example 3 – Rescheduling

Patient: "Hello, I have an appointment on Monday at 3 p.m., but I need to reschedule."

Receptionist: "No problem. When are you available?"

Patient: "Any time on Wednesday."

Receptionist: "Okay, we have Wednesday at 11 a.m. available."

Patient: "Perfect. Thank you."

Extra Vocabulary

Walk-in clinic → a clinic where you don't need an appointment.

Cancellation fee → a charge you may pay if you cancel too late.

Now, let’s practice.