Frequently Asked Questions

Practice Specific FAQs

What is the mission of your practice?

My goal is to provide the highest-quality medical care with an emphasis on both disease prevention and wellness. I strive to provide excellence in family care that is both compassionate and truly patient-focused. From the moment you call 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?
In order to devote more time to each patient’s care and individual needs, I have intentionally limited the size of my practice. I also offer certain non-covered amenities and benefits designed to personalize and enhance the health care experience. In-office appointments will start promptly, with little or no waiting time; virtual visits via telemedicine are offered as an option upon patient request. This practice model also enables me to schedule longer patient appointments (approximately 30 minutes for routine appointments and approximately 60 minutes for a Comprehensive Annual Health Assessment). If an issue requires extra time for evaluation or discussion, I will accommodate you to the best of my ability. Also, after hours for urgent issues, you will be able to contact me on a dedicated cellular phone line just for concierge members, making it easier than ever to communicate
What services are provided as a part of my annual fee?
Please see the Highlights & Details document for a complete list of amenities and benefits provided to my personalized care patients. Your annual fee pays for those non-clinical, non-covered services. Professional services that are covered by Medicare or a commercial insurance plan will be billed separately, and you will continue to be responsible for any applicable co-pays or deductibles relating to those services.
Where is your personalized care practice located?
My office is located at 65 Walnut Street, Suite 500 Wellesley, MA 02481.
At which hospitals are you on staff?
All the local hospitals now utilize hospitalists which means I do not admit to any hospitals under my service. However, should you need to be hospitalized, I will be able to communicate with the hospitalists who care for you at Newton Wellesley Hospital. If you are at any other hospital, I will do my best to make myself available to communicate with you and to serve as an advocate on your behalf.
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 that are described in the Highlights & Details document. 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 provider on my insurance plan?
I intend to remain an in-network provider for many major insurance plans and will bill your insurance directly for professional services that are covered by those plans. (Professional services are not covered by your annual fee.) If the terms of your insurance plan require a co-pay, I am obligated to request payment at the time of service. Even if I am not a provider for your insurance plan, I will attempt to refer you to in-network physicians for any necessary consultations and to in-network facilities for diagnostic tests and hospitalizations as medically indicated. Those services will likely be covered by your insurance plan.

General Concierge Medicine FAQs

What is concierge medicine, and how does it work?

Concierge medicine is a membership-based healthcare model where patients pay an annual fee for enhanced time, communication, and personalized care from their doctor. This usually includes longer, unrushed appointments, 24/7 direct communication, and personalized care plans to best suit your health needs.

How is concierge medicine different from traditional healthcare?
Unlike traditional practices, concierge medicine limits the number of patients per doctor, allowing for more personalized care, same-day or next-day appointments, and 24/7 communication.
Could I still see a specialist if I joined a concierge medicine practice?
Yes. Because of the increased amount of time and attention you get with your membership, concierge doctors will often even coordinate referrals to specialists and assist you with navigating the healthcare system outside of their office.
Is concierge medicine only for wealthy patients?
No. Concierge medicine appeals to individuals who value personalized care and feel they could benefit from increased amounts of time and communication with their doctor.
What is the difference between concierge medicine and direct primary care?
While both models focus on patient-centered care, direct primary care typically has lower fees and excludes insurance entirely, while concierge medicine often complements insurance for specialized services.
How do I choose the best concierge doctor for my needs?
You should look for a doctor who aligns with your health goals, has experience in your areas of concern, and offers the level of care, communication, and services you value most. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary meet and greet to see if we are a good fit for you!
How often can you see a concierge doctor?
Typically, as often as needed. With fewer patients, concierge doctors typically offer same-day or next-day appointments for urgent issues that are not rushed. At my practice, there is not a limit on the number of visits you can have with me.
Why should I consider joining a concierge medicine practice if I’m healthy and rarely see a doctor?
Even if you don’t visit the doctor often, becoming a member gives you peace of mind knowing you have personalized care whenever you need it. Health can be unpredictable, and having a trusted physician who knows your medical history is invaluable. Membership also provides unparalleled convenience, such as same-day or next-day appointments and extended time with your doctor.
How many patients do concierge doctors have?
How many patients do concierge doctors have?
Unlike traditional practices that manage thousands of patients, concierge practices typically limit their patient panels to the low hundreds. This smaller panel size allows them to dedicate more time and attention to each patient, ensuring highly personalized care.
Do concierge doctors offer weekend hours?

Yes, typically concierge doctors are available by phone for urgent concerns after hours, including evenings and weekends. Usually, office hours are also designed to accommodate busy schedules, and extended hours are available as needed.

Insurance & Billing FAQs

Do concierge doctors accept insurance? Do I need to keep my insurance if I join a concierge medicine practice?
Concierge medical practices typically work with health insurance. Your membership fee covers the enhanced time, care, and communication you get from your doctor. You still need to keep your insurance for in office services, potential hospital stays, specialist visits, and emergencies.
Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for concierge medicine fees?
In some cases, yes. Check with your HSA/FSA provider to confirm whether the membership qualifies as an eligible medical expense.
What happens if I need emergency care while in a concierge medicine program?

Emergency care is covered by your insurance, but your concierge doctor can help coordinate follow-up care and communicate with specialists.
Are concierge medicine fees tax-deductible?
Generally, concierge fees are not tax-deductible unless tied directly to specific medical services. You should consult a tax professional for advice.
Do you have to pay your concierge membership fee all at once?
Typically, concierge practices will allow you to break up your membership fees into payments. Here at (insert practice name) we allow our patient members to pay annually, semiannually, or quarterly.
Does a concierge membership fee cover all medical expenses?
No, the membership fee covers the enhanced time, communication, and personalized care from your doctor. In a concierge model, the membership fee does not replace health insurance. Typically, you would still need insurance to cover services provided during your visits