FAQ General Questions
1. What is primary care?
Primary care refers to the day-to-day healthcare services provided by a primary care physician (PCP), who serves as the first point of contact for most medical issues. Primary care includes services like routine checkups, preventive care, chronic disease management, and minor health problems.
2. How do I become a patient at your practice?
To become a patient, simply contact our office, fill out the new patient forms, and schedule an initial consultation or check-up. We’ll confirm if we accept your insurance and explain our process.
3. Do I need to have health insurance to see a primary care physician?
While insurance helps cover most of the costs, we offer payment plans for uninsured or underinsured patients. Contact our office for more details about payment options.
Appointments and Services
4. How can I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office during business hours or using our online scheduling system (if available). We also offer telemedicine appointments for some types of consultations.
5. What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your ID, insurance card, and a list of any medications you’re currently taking. It’s also helpful to bring any past medical records, if available.
6. Can I see a primary care doctor for a specialist referral?
Yes! One of the primary roles of a PCP is to assess your needs and refer you to a specialist if necessary.
7. How long will my appointment last?
Typically, appointments last between 15-30 minutes, depending on the type of consultation. If you have multiple concerns, please mention them when scheduling to ensure adequate time.
8. Do you offer same-day appointments for urgent issues?
Yes, we offer same-day appointments for urgent concerns, based on availability. Please call as early as possible to secure a spot.
Billing and Insurance
9. Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most major insurance plans. Contact our office, and our staff will verify your insurance coverage before your visit.
10. How much will my visit cost?
The cost of your visit will depend on your insurance plan and the services provided. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, we’ll provide a clear breakdown of fees before your visit.
11. What if I don’t have insurance?
We provide affordable care options for patients without insurance. Please contact us to discuss payment arrangements.
Health Concerns and Services
12. Can I get vaccinations through your practice?
Yes, we offer a variety of vaccinations, including flu shots, childhood immunizations, and travel vaccines. Check with our office for specific availability.
13. What should I do if I’m experiencing an emergency?
For medical emergencies, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If it’s a non-emergency but you need urgent care, we can advise you on what to do.
14. Do you offer telehealth/virtual appointments?
Yes, we offer virtual visits for certain types of appointments, such as follow-ups, minor illnesses, and consultations. Please contact us to check if your appointment qualifies.
Preventive Care
15. Do you offer preventive health screenings?
Yes, we offer various screenings such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, diabetes screening, cancer screenings, and more. Your doctor will recommend appropriate screenings based on your age, health history, and risk factors.
16. How often should I see my primary care doctor for check-ups?
It’s generally recommended to have a check-up once a year, but your doctor may suggest more frequent visits based on your health needs.
17. What is a wellness exam?
A wellness exam is a routine check-up that includes an assessment of your overall health, preventive screenings, immunizations, and a discussion of any health concerns. It’s an opportunity to address health issues before they become serious.