Durham Rheumatology | Office Policies

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OFFICE POLICIES

1. New Patients We usually require a referral from a physician for new patients in order to be sure that the problem is appropriate for us to see, to ensure that records and x-ray reports are available to us, and to be sure that insurance authorizations are done properly. You will be treated by one of our four rheumatologists who will direct all aspects of your rheumatology care. As a rule, you will only be seen by your own physician so that all of your care will be from the physician who knows you. We do not employ any physician assistants, nurse clinicians, or other "physician extenders."

2. Insurance We participate with Medicare, BCBS of NC, Wellpath, Aetna, Duke Select, and several smaller plans. We do NOT participate with Cigna (outside of Medicare) or United. We are willing to see patients covered by plans in which we do not participate, but we require full payment at the time of service. Please understand that in that situation your insurance company may or may not reimburse you anything for our services.

3. Payment for Services We expect you to fully pay your portion of our fees at the time of service including any copays or deductibles. We accept Visa and Mastercard for your convenience.

4. Missed Appointments We have a small office, not a large clinic. When we make an appointment that time is set aside for you. Missed appointments are unfair to us and other patients who are waiting to see us. We may charge a no-show fee for missed appointments and a pattern of missed appointments will result in dismissal from our practice.

5. Prescription Refills Please ask your pharmacy to fax us (919-220-2627) refill requests several days before they are needed. You may also call us, but that works less well. WE DO NOT REFILL PRESCIPTIONS FOR PAIN MEDICATIONS OR OTHER CONTROLLED DRUGS ON NIGHTS OR WEEKENDS.

6. Emergencies One of our physicians is always on-call for emergencies and may be contacted by calling our main office number. Please restrict night and weekend calls to true emergencies or medical situations that cannot wait until the next business day.