FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Your Questions, My Answers
What is the mission of your practice?
My goal is to provide the highest-quality medical care with an emphasis on patient safety and comfort, and 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 call my office, I want you to be completely satisfied with every aspect of your care.
How is the practice different from a traditional medical practice?
In order to devote more time to each patient’s care and individual needs, I have intentionally limited the size of my practice. I also offer certain non-covered amenities and benefits designed to personalize and enhance the health care experience. In-office appointments will start promptly, with little or no waiting time; virtual visits via telemedicine are offered as an option upon patient request. This practice model also enables me to schedule longer patient appointments (30 minutes for routine appointments and 60-90 minutes for the Comprehensive Annual Health Assessment). If an issue requires extra time for evaluation or discussion, I will accommodate you to the best of my ability. Also, after hours for urgent issues, you will be able to contact me on my cell phone, making it easier than ever to communicate.
At which hospitals are you on staff?
All local hospitals utilize hospitalists which means I do not directly admit to either hospital in town; (Ascension Providence or Baylor Scott and White, Hillcrest). However, I am able to communicate with the hospitalists and specialists while you are hospitalized and be your advocate while there. If you are at any other hospital, I will do my best to make myself available to communicate with you and to serve as an advocate on your behalf.
What about labs, X-rays, specialists’ fees and hospitalization?
All medical procedures and services, whether performed in my office or by other providers or health care facilities, will be billed by the performing physician and/or entity.
What happens if I move out of the area and need to terminate after I enroll?
Your membership agreement may be terminated upon 30 days’ written notice to me/my practice. If you move or wish to secure a new physician, the annual fee may be refunded on a prorated basis.
What if I have an emergency?
Please know that you can contact me at any time. However, if you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately.
You can then call me or ask the hospital personnel to contact me so I may assist in your care. If you have a non-urgent problem, feel free to contact me first.
What should I do if I become ill while traveling or away on an extended vacation?
If the problem is minor, call me first. However, if you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately – then you can call me. With the exception of controlled substances, I will seek to accommodate your prescription requests if state/local law allows. If you seek care at an emergency room or urgent care center out of my area, you should feel free to ask the doctor seeing you to call me for coordination of your care. If you should require hospitalization while away, at your request, I will attempt to establish regular phone communication with you and your attending physician(s) to ensure continuity of care.
What if I need to see a specialist or a surgeon?
Should you request, I am available to help you decide which specialist to see and to coordinate such consultations. This will ensure the most appropriate resource is used, the earliest arrangements are made, and your applicable medical information is sent in advance of your specialist visit.
Who is Specialdocs?
Specialdocs Consultants, LLC, the company long respected for its expertise in concierge medicine, manages the membership aspect of my practice. They can help answer your questions related to enrollment, membership billing and renewals. Please call (847) 432-4502 to reach my membership team.