Frequently Asked Questions
How is the practice different from a traditional medical practice?
I have intentionally limited the size of my practice so I can devote more time to each patient’s care and individual needs. I also offer patients certain non-covered amenities and benefits designed to personalize and enhance their health care experience. In-office appointments begin promptly with little or no waiting time. Virtual visits via telemedicine are offered as an option upon patient request. This approach to practicing medicine enables me to schedule longer patient appointments. As a baseline, I allow approximately 30 minutes for routine appointments and approximately 60 minutes for the comprehensive annual health assessment. If an issue requires extra time for evaluation or discussion, I will accommodate patients to the best of my ability. Also, concierge service means patients will be able to contact me for urgent issues on my personal patient-dedicated cell phone, making it easier than ever to communicate.
At which hospitals are you on staff?
I am on staff at Piedmont Hospital and will continue to coordinate your care and refer you to their outstanding specialists.
Do I still need health insurance if I enroll with you?
Yes. Your annual fee only pays for the non-clinical, non-covered amenities and benefits that are described in the Highlights & Details document. Neither the fee nor the amenities take the place of general health insurance coverage. You are advised to continue your Medicare or other health insurance program coverage.
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. (Professional services are not covered by 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. Even if I am not a provider for your insurance plan, I will attempt to refer you to in-network physicians for any necessary consultations and to in-network facilities for diagnostic tests and hospitalizations as medically indicated. Those services will likely be covered 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. Office visit fees that are not reimbursed by insurance will be the responsibility of the patient.