FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the mission of your practice?
My goal is to provide the highest-quality medical care and service, emphasizing a proactive, comprehensive approach to both disease prevention and wellness. I strive to provide excellence in care that is both compassionate and truly patient-focused. From the moment you enter my office, I want you to be completely satisfied with every aspect of your care.
How is the practice different from a traditional medical practice?
I have intentionally limited the size of my practice in order to devote more time to each patient’s care and individual needs. I also offer patients certain non-covered amenities and benefits designed to personalize and enhance their health care experience. Patients will have reduced waiting room time, and same day or within 24-hour acute care appointments. This practice model also enables me to schedule longer patient appointments (approximately 30 minutes or longer if needed, for routine appointments) that they, or I, feel they need. If an issue requires extra time for evaluation or discussion, I will accommodate patients to the best of my ability. Also, you will be able to contact me on my personal patient-dedicated cell phone and email, making it easier than ever to communicate.
At which hospitals are you on staff?
I am affiliated with Mt. Sinai West and Lenox Hill Hospitals.
Who will cover for you when you are not available?
My goal is to be available to my patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, there will be occasions when I am out of town or otherwise unavailable. In these situations, a trusted colleague will serve as my covering physician.
Do I still need health insurance if I enroll with you?
Yes. Your annual fee only pays for the non-clinical, non-covered amenities and benefits. 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 Participating ‘Provider’ for Medicare?
Yes. My office will file your claims with Medicare as well as with your supplemental insurer on your behalf, as required by law. Office visit fees that are not reimbursed by insurance will be the responsibility of the patient.
Will my private insurance reimburse my annual fee?
The annual fee is not reimbursable by your insurance plan.
Do you bill Medicare for my annual fee?
No. The annual fee only includes services and benefits that are not covered by Medicare (or any other payer) and that will not be paid for or reimbursed by Medicare.
Is the annual fee tax deductible or reimbursable through my HSA or FSA?
In some instances, the annual fee, or part of the fee, may be payable through your HSA. You are advised to consult with your FSA or HSA plan administrator, employer, HR representative or tax adviser to clarify qualification in your particular circumstance.
What should I do if I become ill while traveling or away on an extended vacation?
If the problem is minor, call me first. However, if you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately – then you can call me. With the exception of controlled substances, I will seek to accommodate your prescription requests if state/local law allows. If you seek care at an emergency room or urgent care center out of my area, you should feel free to ask the doctor treating you to call me for coordination of your care. I will be readily available for phone consultation with you and/or other health care personnel. If you should require hospitalization while away, at your request, I will attempt to establish regular phone communication with you and your attending physician(s) to ensure continuity of care.