What is a concierge practice?
Concierge practice is a healthcare model that puts the patient first: treating you when you need care, not rushing you through appointments, and taking a proactive approach to preventative treatment and wellness. In my concierge practice, our doctor-patient relationship is direct and you have the access when you need it—and want it.
If I’ve already been your patient in primary care, do I need to officially join this practice?
Yes, you do.
Is there a part-time or month-to-month option for the yearly retainer?
No, you’ll have to sign up for the full year to become a patient in the practice.
Do you accept insurance?
My practice doesn’t accept insurance for your ongoing care and medical support as a patient. That’s part of what keeps the model open, with direct access to me.
Do I need to retain my insurance coverage or Medicare?
Yes. Patients will need to retain primary insurance or Medicare to cover hospitalizations, emergency room visits, prescription drugs, specialist care, certain lab tests and procedures, and other care that takes place outside our office. An insurance plan with a high deductible or a health savings account may be a good fit for you. The office staff can field further questions about insurance and concierge care.
Will my insurance pay if I am referred to a specialist?
Our office staff can help coordinate your specialist care and address specialists who may be in-network or out-of-network for your insurance provider. We will be able to refer you to a specialist under whose care you will be covered.
Is my yearly retainer a tax-deductible expense?
Yes, your yearly retainer is a medical expense—and should be tax-deductible. As with other medical expenses, you may have options, including a health savings account, flex plan, or medical IRA. Consider discussing your options with your employer’s benefits specialist and/or your tax professional.
Can I contact you after hours?
Yes, absolutely. That’s the benefit of this practice model: you have access to me when you need it and want it, regardless of time of day and day of the week.
If you’re out of town and I need access, how can I reach you?
I will still be available to patients via personal cellphone, Skype, and FaceTime. Sometimes, a simple conversation can cover your needs while you’re traveling. Sometimes, that conversation doesn’t suffice, and you’ll need an office visit. I am collaborating with another area physician’s concierge practice, and we will cover for each other for in-office needs during the other’s absence.
If I go to the emergency room or see another doctor, will I have to pay?
Yes. Your yearly retainer provides access to care at my office as well as your ongoing access to me outside of office hours. I am available for emergency calls and to act as your advisor. If an emergency room visit is medically necessary as a result of a serious condition, this visit is not covered by your yearly retainer in my practice—and will be your responsibility. That’s why it is important to retain primary insurance or Medicare.
Does your practice offer discounts for couples?
Yes. See Fees and Services.
Does your practice offer care for the whole family?
While I am not a pediatrician, I do see children beginning at age 15. Couples who are patients in the practice can enroll their children at a rate of $125/month or $1500 per year. The first two children join at that rate, and any additional children join at no additional cost.
Do you share my medical records with insurance carriers or pharmaceutical companies?
Our standards of privacy are above reproach. The practice will not provide a third party with a copy of your records unless you specifically ask.