What is an Internal Medicine Physician?
An internist is a specialist who is specialized in diagnosing and treating non-surgical conditions of adults. To become an internist (Internal Medicine physician), a graduate of a four-year medical school must complete a three-year residency in internal medicine treating complex medical conditions in adults under the close supervision by attending physicians.
General internists are not limited to one type of medical problem or organ system. Sometimes referred to as doctor’s doctor, their training uniquely qualifies them to practice primary care, as well as in the hospital setting where they may be referred to as “hospitalists”. They can also be consultants where they solve puzzling and complex diagnostic conditions.
What types of conditions can I see an internal medicine physician for?
Internists do not treat specific areas of the body; rather, they treat patients as a whole. There are no conditions too simple or complex that are outside the range of an internist’s care. They are equipped and trained to manage chronic disease, as well as treat sudden, acute illness. The internist understands both physical and mental health and can treat issues often managed by other specialists, such as reproductive, neurological, dermatological, ear, nose, and throat problems. Though patients are sometimes referred to other types of specialists, the internist serves as a ‘first line of defense’ when issues arise.
Do you accept patients with no insurance? Do you see patients for Acute Illness Care?
Yes, we do. We offer FEE FOR SERVICE (FFS)/ ACUTE ILLNESS CARE for the uninsured. Immediate Care is defined as medical care provided to patients who have non-urgent, non-emergent, and non-life-threatening acute illnesses that require urgent medical attention. These conditions include but are not limited to respiratory tract infections, viral illnesses, sore throat, pneumonia, allergies, poison ivy, ear infections, shingles, etc. We also offer FFS appointments if you want to discuss your chronic medical conditions or need refills on medication.
Billing is done based on time. Please refer to our pricing or call the office for details. We offer highly subsidized cash prices for medication, labs, imaging, and even specialty referral if necessary.
Can you help with the cost of lab testing/imaging?
If you wish to pay directly for your labs/imaging, we offer significantly reduced pricing by coordinating with major labs and imaging facilities locally. You can also have the lab or imaging facility submit a bill to your insurance if you wish to do so. You can compare pricing and decide which one is best for you.
Do you offer discounted prescriptions?
We will soon feature an in-house pharmacy and also can help find lower-cost options for medications by coordinating with local pharmacies. Use your current insurance to help cover your prescription costs or pay a low cash price.
Do you manage chronic pain?
We prefer to manage these conditions conservatively and with non-addictive medications when possible. More importantly, we investigate and treat the cause to hopefully eradicate your pain.
*Please note we do not prescribe long-term opioid medications (oxycodone, hydrocodone, tramadol, etc). Instead, we may refer you to a pain specialist for chronic pain management.
Do you manage mental health conditions?
Yes, we do treat mental illnesses. If the management requires a psychiatrist, we will be happy to place a referral.
*Please note we do not prescribe any long-term controlled substances that include but not limited to: Benzodiazepines: Klonopin, Ativan, Valium, Xanax, etc., and stimulant/ADHD medications including Adderall, Vyvanse, Concerta, and Ritalin.
Do I still need health insurance if I enroll with you as a concierge patient?
Yes. Your annual fee only pays for the non-clinical, non-covered amenities and benefits that are described in the benefits of concierge patients. 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?
We are in-network providers for most major insurance plans and will bill your insurance directly for office visits (office visit charges are not included in your membership fee). If the terms of your insurance plan require a co-pay, we are obligated by your insurance company to request payment at the time of service.
Is the membership fee tax-deductible or payable through my FSA or HSA?
In some instances, the membership fee, or part of the fee, maybe payable through your HSA. You are advised to consult with your HSA or FSA plan administrator, employer, HR representative, or tax adviser to clarify qualification in your circumstance.
What if I have an emergency?
Please know that you can contact us at any time if you are a concierge patient. Non-concierge patients are advised to call the clinic if they have an urgent issue during office hours. If you have a life-threatening emergency, always call 911 first. You can then call us or ask the hospital personnel to contact us so we may assist in your care. If you have a non-urgent problem, please contact us first.
What are my membership fee payment options?
Your membership fee may be paid in full by check to Internal Medicine-Direct Primary Care or may be paid annually, semiannually by credit card. If you opt for the semiannual payment option, the first payment will be charged to the credit card you indicate on your Patient Agreement form upon. The remaining balance of your annual enrollment fee will be charged automatically to your credit card in installments after your start date, accordingly. Unless we hear otherwise, payments will be processed continually.
What happens if I need to end my membership?
Your membership agreement can be terminated upon 30 days written notice. The annual fee will be refunded on a prorated basis, based on the number of days that have elapsed in the service year. A copy of your records can be sent to another physician upon receipt of your signed release. This signed authorization is required by law in order to release your records.
Other questions?
Feel free to call our office at 703-651-5910 for more information or schedule a free consultation at any time if you wish to be a concierge patient.