FAQ

What is a family physician?

A family physician is a medical doctor who provides continual comprehensive health care for the entire family. Family physicians complete an additional three years of training following medical school focused on treating a patient as a whole. Training covers such specialties as geriatrics, pediatrics, internal medicine, general and specialty surgery, obstetrics and gynecology and psychiatry.

What ages do family physicians treat?

Family physicians treat the healthcare needs of patients of all ages, both male and female.

What treatments do family physicians provide?

Family physicians provide a full range of the most advanced and comprehensive medical care available. They are skilled in newborn, infant care and pediatric medicine, as well as women's and men's healthcare. In addition, they provide cardiovascular screening and management, geriatric services, complete care for acute and chronic illnesses and nutrition counseling, just to name a few.

What is a Family Nurse Practitioner?

A Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) is a Registered Nurse who has completed additional advanced nursing education such as a master's degree or doctoral degree, as well as additional training in the diagnosis, treatment and management of a wide range of common to complex medical conditions.

How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?

Simply call our office or send us an e-mail. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information from you.

What information do I need to bring to my first visit?

Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration forms. To assist us, please bring your insurance card and a photo ID, as well as a list of any medications, vitamins and/or herbal supplements you are currently taking. If you are bringing your child, please bring his/her immunization records as well. Please also be prepared to pay your co-pay at the time services are rendered.

What if I don't have health insurance?

If you do not have insurance, we request that payment be made at the time services are rendered. You may contact our financial coordinator with questions concerning your account or to develop a payment plan that meets your needs.

What can I expect during my first visit?

After you complete the necessary registration forms, we will take some time to get you acquainted with our office. We will discuss our financial policy with you and help set up a financial plan that is best for you. We are always available to answer any questions you may have concerning your account and/or treatment.

What is the difference between an M.D. and D.O.?

For the most part, Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine have completed much of the same training and use much of the same techniques and technologies to treat their patients. They both have completed four years of undergraduate education as well as four years of medical education. Both choose a specialty area of medicine and complete at least a three-year residency focused on that specialty.

There are some differences between Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine. Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine are able to perform surgery, deliver children and provide comprehensive treatment for patients. In addition, they complete musculoskeletal system training, which includes the bones, muscles and nerves. This training enables them to perform osteopathic manipulations.

How can I get a prescription refill?

Contact your pharmacist to request a prescription refill. If the medication is able to be refilled, they will submit an electronic request to our office. Please allow 24 hours for processing refill requests.

If your request is for a controlled substance that we have previously written for you , please call our office 3-5 business days in advance of your need. You will be required to pick up these written prescriptions directly from our office.

Please keep in mind that some prescriptions may require a follow-up exam to determine the need of a refill.

Why do I need a referral to see a specialist?

Most often, insurance companies require a referral to a specialist in order for them to cover their portion of the services provided. Be sure to contact your insurance provider to determine if a referral is needed to see a particular specialist. Please allow 3-5 business days for us to process your referrals.

How can I get my medical records transferred to another office?

In order for us to transfer your medical records to another office, we need to have a Medical Records Release form signed and dated by you. This allows you to specify to whom we are able to release your medical information and for us to protect your medical information under the HIPAA regulations. Please allow two weeks to process your request. There may be a charge for copying medical records. Please contact us for additional information.