Frequently Asked Questions

In a concierge, (or membership), medicine practice, the doctor makes a commitment to limit the number of patients to ensure adequate time and availability for each patient, and to provide an enhanced level of care.

Extended, unrushed visits enable physicians to spend meaningful time with patients, build relationships, and provide more comprehensive, proactive care than in traditional practices. To make this possible, the patient pays an annual fee.

I love practicing medicine. The greatest gift I’ve been given is the power to connect with patients, interpret their needs, and provide just the right amount of guidance. However, my concern with healthcare today is the lack of time…there is never enough of it to do as much as I’d like for every patient, and care for them proactively, not reactively.

Unfortunately, in recent years, the medical landscape has changed and mounting administrative tasks take time once devoted to patient care. Converting my practice to a concierge medicine model will allow me to continue to offer longer appointment times, enhanced healthcare services and my personal availability.

The difference will be evident from the moment you call the office. During office hours, calls are answered live, with no phone trees to navigate or buttons to press.

If you wake up feeling ill in the morning, for example, you will be scheduled promptly for a visit and there will be little or no waiting time once you arrive.

Should you have a concern after hours, you’ll be able to reach me easily and directly via my personal email or cell phone, whether you are home or traveling. At any time, I will be available when you need me.

A concierge practice, with ample time to focus on preventive measures and wellness, has proven to be one of the most effective models for maintaining health.

If you do become ill – and we recognize that health is unpredictable – you will have peace of mind that the doctor who knows you best will be available when needed. A call to my office or cell phone after hours can frequently prevent a trip to the emergency room or an urgent care clinic.

My mission is to be your healthcare navigator and medical team leader. I will guide you and help you make the best informed decisions regarding your healthcare. I will continue to care for your medical needs, emphasizing a proactive, comprehensive approach to both disease prevention and wellness. I will strive to provide excellence in care that is both compassionate and patient-focused.

My smaller practice size allows me to devote more time to each patient’s care and individual needs. This practice model offers time to schedule approximately 30 minutes for routine appointments and approximately 60 minutes for the Comprehensive Annual Health Assessment. Appointments will start promptly, and I will be able to spend more time with you. If a problem requires extra time for evaluation, I will accommodate you to the best of my ability. Also, our communication will be enhanced through patient-dedicated cell phone and email.

My concierge medical practice is at 2579 John Milton Dr. Suite 300, Herndon, VA.

I am affiliated with Inova Fair Oaks Hospital.

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.

Yes. My medical practice will not take the place of general health insurance coverage. My practice is a primary care medical practice, not a health insurance program. You are advised to continue your Medicare or other insurance programs.

I intend to remain an in-network provider for most major PPO insurance plans and will bill your insurance directly for office visits (office visit charges are not included in your annual fee). If the terms of your insurance plan require a co-pay, I am obligated by your insurance company to request payment at the time of service.

The annual fee is not reimbursable by your insurance plan.

Yes. My office will file your claims with Medicare, as well as with your supplemental insurer on your behalf, as required by law. If the terms of your insurance plan requires a co-pay, I am obligated by your insurance company to request payment at the time of service.

No. The annual fee only includes services and benefits described in the Highlights & Details that are not covered by Medicare (or any other payor) and will not be paid for or reimbursed by Medicare.

In some instances, the annual fee may be payable through your HSA. You are advised to consult with your FSA or HSA plan administrator, employer, HR representative or tax advisor to clarify qualification in your particular circumstance.

Please know that you can contact me at any time; however, if you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately. You can then call me or ask the hospital personnel to contact me so we may assist in your care. If you have a non-urgent problem, please contact me first.

If the problem is minor, call us first. However, call 911 if you have a life-threatening emergency. Then call me. With the exception of a few controlled substances, most prescriptions can be ordered anywhere in the country. If you seek care at an emergency room or urgent care center out of our area, I would\ request that you have the doctor seeing you call me for coordination. I will be readily available for phone consultation with you and/or other healthcare 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.

Should you desire, I am available to help you decide which specialist to see and to coordinate such consultations. In this way, the most appropriate resource is used, the earliest arrangements are made, and your applicable medical information is sent in advance of your specialist visit.

Yes. Paying your annual fee allows you to be a member of my practice whether you are sick or well. I strongly encourage you to utilize the benefits offered, regardless of your state of health, to proactively safeguard your health.