Frequently Asked Questions
Why don't you take insurance?
A lot of insurance companies get between patients and their doctors these days. If I take insurance, I will be unable to spend the time that many of my patients need for adequate care. You will not need to worry about copays, deductables, covered services, etc. Instead, you have a clear price without any surprise bills.
What is Direct Patient Care?
Direct Patient Care (DPC) is a medical model in which the middle man (insurance) is taken out of the equation so that you and your doctor can deal directly with each other without meddling from third parties. Your insurance will still pay for covered laboratory tests, imaging and medications.
If you are tired of waiting to see your doctor to get a referral, or have been told you need to wait a few months to be seen by a specialist, then DPC may be right for you as there is no need for a referral, and no need to wait. If your endocrinologist insists on seeing you every three months to prescribe your medication despite not needing a dose adjustment, or you have been asked to come in in a few weeks when your labs are abnormal NOW, then DPC may be right for you.
Are you a "concierge" physician?
Nope. I do not have a membership model nor membership fees. You pay for what you use.
When can I see you?
While we love helping people, we have closed our panel for the time being so we can continue to give dedicated time and excellent care to our existing patients. If you really want to see me, or are referred by an existing patient or a physician, call us at 813-360-1214 so we can help.
Do you do weight management?
Yes, I am board certified in Obesity Medicine and I am a huge proponent of medically supervised weight loss programs. While lifestyle modification in the form of dietary modification and exercise is necessary for success, medically supervised weight loss with weight loss medications must be carefully supervised by a doctor (MD or DO). I have been practicing weight management for a long time, from the days when Saxenda was still shiny and new!
What do you think about T3 for hypothyroidism? Will you check my reverse T3 and thyroid antibodies?
I am comfortable with managing liothyronine, Armour Thyroid, NP thyroid in addition to the more traditional levothyroxine formualtions The goal is improving symptoms and normalizing TSH- I will not harm patients by using medications to suppress TSH and thus increase their risk for atrial fibrillation, hypercalcemia and osteoporosis- I have seen all these complications from patients getting too much thyroid hormone replacement.
As for antibodies-Â thyroglobulin Ab, TPO and TSI have their important roles in thyroid disease management. Reverse T3 does not.
How will I know my results?
Most laboratories allow you to see your results as soon as they are available. I will set up an appointment to discuss all results with you either in person at the clinic or virtually, from the comfort of your home or workplace.