Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the FAQs for Katy Family Medicine and Urgent Care
General Questions
What is family medicine? How does it differ from other medical specialties?
Family medicine is a medical specialty dedicated to comprehensive healthcare for people of all ages. Unlike other specialties that focus on a specific organ or disease, family medicine provides ongoing and personalized care for individuals and families throughout their lives.
What are the services offered in your family medicine practice?
We provide a wide range of services, including preventive healthcare, chronic disease
management, acute care for short-term illnesses, health education, and wellness promotion.
What ages of patients does your family practice serve?
Our practice serves patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors.
How can I make an appointment?
For medical attention outside of office hours, please call our after-hours number provided
or go to the nearest emergency room for serious or life-threatening issues.
What do I do if I need medical attention when the office is closed?
You can make an appointment by calling our office or booking online through our website
What should I bring to my first appointment?
For your first appointment, please bring your identification, insurance card, list of current
medications, and any relevant medical records.
What should I do if I'm running late for my appointment?
If you’re running late, please call our office as soon as possible to let us know. We’ll do our
best to accommodate you.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel an appointment, please call us at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a
cancellation fee.
Do you provide telemedicine or virtual consultation services?
Yes, we provide telemedicine services. Please call our office or visit our website to schedule a
virtual consultation.
Insurance-related Questions
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept a variety of insurance plans. Please visit our website or call our office for a full
list.
Do you accept Medicaid/Medicare?
Yes, we do accept Medicaid/Medicare.
If my insurance changes, what should I do?
If your insurance changes, please notify us as soon as possible so we can update our records and ensure a smooth billing process.
If my insurance plan requires a referral to see a specialist, can you provide that?
Yes, we can provide referrals if your insurance plan requires it.
What is my responsibility if my insurance company denies a claim?
If your insurance company denies a claim, you will be responsible for paying the full amount
of the denied claim.
Will my insurance cover preventative care?
Preventative care coverage can vary greatly between insurance plans. We recommend contacting your insurance provider for details on your specific plan’s coverage.
Direct Primary Care (DPC) Questions
What is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?
Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a healthcare model that emphasizes a direct financial
relationship between patients and physicians. It often involves a monthly, quarterly, or
annual fee that covers a range of primary care services.
How does DPC differ from traditional insurance-based healthcare?
Unlike traditional healthcare, DPC doesn’t involve insurance. This means there’s more
emphasis on preventative care and longer appointments, and less paperwork.
What services are included in the DPC membership?
Our DPC membership includes services such as unlimited office visits, annual physical exams, and direct access to your doctor via phone or email.
How much does DPC membership cost?
Our DPC membership costs vary depending on age. Please call our office or click here for detailed pricing information.
Can I join the DPC program if I already have insurance?
Yes, you can still join our DPC program even if you have insurance.
If I have a high-deductible insurance plan, is it beneficial to have a DPC membership?
Yes, having a DPC membership can complement high-deductible insurance plans by covering routine primary care and preventing high out-of-pocket expenses.
How do I sign up for DPC membership?
You can sign up for DPC membership through our website or by calling our office.
If I am a DPC member, can I still see other specialists?
Yes, you can still see other specialists. We can coordinate with them to ensure you receive
comprehensive care.
Can I cancel my DPC membership anytime?
Yes, you can cancel your DPC membership anytime, but we require a 30-day notice.
If I am a DPC member, how do I schedule an appointment?
DPC members can schedule appointments through our website, by phone, or by email. Click here to begin
Prescription-Related Questions
How do I request a prescription refill?
You can request a prescription refill by calling our office or requesting it through our online patient portal.
Can you prescribe medications to a pharmacy outside of my insurance network?
Yes, we can prescribe medications to any pharmacy, but coverage depends on your insurance policy.
Do you provide sample medications?
While we occasionally have sample medications available, it depends on the type of medication needed.
Medical Record Questions
How can I obtain a copy of my medical records?
You can request a copy of your medical records by contacting our office. There may be a small fee for this service.
How secure are my medical records?
We use a secure electronic health record system to maintain patient records. All information is encrypted and protected by HIPAA laws.
Can I access my medical records online?
Yes, you can access your medical records online through our secure patient portal.
Billing Questions
How does billing work if I have insurance?
If you have insurance, we will bill your insurance company directly for services. You’ll be responsible for any copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles outlined in your insurance plan.
How does billing work if I am a DPC member?
For DPC members, there are no copayments or additional costs for services covered under the DPC membership. Services not covered by the DPC membership will be billed separately.
What types of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, check, debit cards, and most major credit cards.
How can I update my billing information?
You can update your billing information by calling our office or through our online patient portal.