Why did you convert your practice to concierge medicine?
An endocrinologist’s role as educator, guide and the patient’s best advocate is at risk in today’s medical environment. One of the greatest gift as a doctor is to be able to connect with patients, interpret their needs and provide the right guidance. Unfortunately, in recent years, the medical landscape has changed and mounting administrative tasks take time once devoted to patient care. The challenges for patients add up: long waits both for an appointment and in the waiting room, along with limited availability to me outside office visits. Most importantly, there is little time to delve deeper outside of pressing issues. This became unacceptable to me and to my patients.
I believe concierge medicine provides the best solution, enhancing healthcare services, offering longer appointment times, and addressing patients need in a timely manner.
What is the mission of your practice?
Our goal is to provide the highest-quality endocrine care and service, emphasizing a proactive, comprehensive approach to both disease prevention and wellness. I strive to provide excellence in care that is both compassionate and truly patient-focused. From the moment you enter my office, I want you to be completely satisfied with every aspect of your care.
Would this practice be right for me?
A concierge practice, with ample time to focus on preventive measures, wellness and cutting edge knowledge of 21st century approaches to endocrinology, has proven to be one of the most effective models for maintaining health. If you do have an emergent medical issue – and we recognize that health is unpredictable – you will have peace of mind that the doctor who knows you best will be available when needed. A call to my office or cell phone after hours can frequently prevent a trip to the emergency room or an urgent care clinic.
What services are provided as a part of my annual fee?
Your annual fee pays for those non-clinical, non-covered services. Professional services that are covered by Medicare or a commercial insurance plan will be billed separately—generally to your health plan—and you will continue to be responsible for any applicable co-pays or deductibles relating to those services.
Who will cover for you when you are not available?
My goal is to be available to my patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, there will be occasions when I am out of town or otherwise unavailable. In these situations, a trusted colleague will serve as my covering physician.
Do I still need health insurance if I enroll with you?
Yes. Our medical practice will not take the place of general health insurance coverage. Our practice is a endocrionology medical practice, not a health insurance program. You are advised to continue your Medicare or other health insurance program coverage and to participate in your FSA or HSA plan.
Will you be a "Provider" on my insurance plan?
I intend to remain an in-network provider for most major PPO insurance plans and will bill your insurance directly for professional services that are covered by those plans (office visit charges are not included in your annual fee). If the terms of your insurance plan require a co-pay, I am obligated to request payment at the time of service.
Will my private insurance reimburse my annual fee?
The annual fee is not reimbursable by your insurance plan.
Will you be a Participating Provider for Medicare?
Yes. My office will file your claims with Medicare as well as with your supplemental insurer on your behalf, as required by law. For any patients who have a Medicare Advantage plan, office visit fees that are not reimbursed by insurance will be the responsibility of the patient.
Do you bill Medicare for my annual fee?
No. The annual fee only includes services and benefits described in the Highlights & Details that are not covered my Medicare (or any other payor) and will not be paid for or reimbursed by Medicare.
Is the annual fee tax deductive or payable through my FSA or HSA?
In some instances, the annual fee, or part of the fee, may be payable through your HSA. You are advised to consult with your FSA or HSA plan administrator, employer, HR representative or tax adviser to clarify qualification in your particular circumstance.
What happens if I move out of the area and need to terminate after I enroll?
Your membership agreement can be terminated upon 30 days’ written notice to me/my practice. If you move and wish to secure a new physician, the annual fee will be refunded on a prorated basis. The last three years of your records will be sent to your new physician upon receipt of a signed release from you authorizing/directing me/my practice to send the records to your new physician. This release of records is required by law.
