Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common patient questions about concierge medicine, billing & insurance, and our practice philosophy.
What is the mission of your concierge medicine practice?
How is the practice different?
A smaller practice size allows us to devote more time to each patient’s care and individual needs. This practice model offers time to schedule approximately 30 minutes for routine appointments and approximately 60 minutes for the Comprehensive Annual Health Assessment. Appointments will start promptly, and we will be able to spend more time with you. If a problem requires extra time for evaluation, we will accommodate you to the best of our ability. Also, our communication will be enhanced through patient-dedicated cell phone and email.
At which hospitals are you on staff?
Who will cover for you when you are not available?
Our goal is to be available to my patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, there will be occasions when we out of town or otherwise unavailable. In these situations, we will cover for each other or a trusted colleague will serve as our 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 primary care medical practice, not a health insurance program. You are advised to continue your Medicare or other insurance programs as well as participation in your FSA or HSA plan.
Will you be a ‘Provider’ on my insurance plan?
We are an “in-network” provider for most major PPO insurance plans and will bill your insurance directly for office visits. (Office visit charges are not included in your annual fee.) We do not accept HMO plans. If the terms of your insurance plan require a co-pay, we are obligated to request payment at the time of service. Even if we are not a provider for your insurance plan, we 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 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. Our status with Medicare will remain unchanged. Our office will continue to file your claims with Medicare, as well as with your supplemental insurer on your behalf, as required by law.
Do you bill Medicare for my annual fee?
No. The annual fee only includes services and benefits described herein that are not covered by Medicare (or any other payer) and will not be paid for or reimbursed by Medicare.
Is the annual fee tax deductible or reimbursable through my FSA or HSA?
You are advised to consult with your FSA or HSA plan administrator, employer, HR representative or tax advisor to clarify qualification in your particular circumstance.