Find the answers to commonly asked questions about
Dr. Simmons’s concierge primary care practice.
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 45 minutes to an hour depending on the needs of the patient, for routine appointments and approximately 90 minutes for the 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 24-hour text and messaging line, making it easier than ever to communicate.
At which hospitals are you on staff?
All of the local hospitals now utilize hospitalists which means I do not admit to any hospital. However, I am on staff at John Muir Walnut Creek and have access to their medical records. Should you need to be hospitalized, I will be able to communicate with the hospitalists who care for you at John Muir Walnut Creek. 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.
Will you be a provider on my insurance plan?
I intend to remain an in-network provider for many major PPO 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.
Will you be a participating provider for Medicare?
Yes. My office will file your claims with Medicare as well as with your supplemental PPO insurer on your behalf, as required by law. Office visit fees that are not reimbursed by insurance will be the responsibility of the patient.
What are my annual fee payment options?
Your annual fee may be paid in full by check to: Christopher A. Simmons Consulting or may be paid annually, semiannually, or quarterly by credit card. If you opt to pay by credit card, the first payment will be charged to the credit card you indicate on your Membership Agreement Form upon receipt of your executed Membership Agreement Form. The remaining balance of your annual membership/enrollment fee (if any) will be charged automatically to your credit card in installments after your start date, accordingly. Until we hear otherwise, payments will be processed continually.
What about labs, X-rays, specialists’ fees and hospitalization?
All medical procedures and services, whether performed in my office or by other providers or health care facilities, will be billed by the performing physician and/or entity.
Will I be required to pay my annual fee even if I do not use your services?
Yes. Paying your annual fee allows you to be a member of my practice and to be in touch with me 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 well-being.
What happens if I move out of the area and need to terminate after I enroll?
Your membership agreement can be terminated upon 30 days’ written notice to me/my practice. If you move or wish to secure a new physician, the annual fee will be refunded on a prorated basis.
What if I have an emergency?
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 I may assist in your care. If you have a non-urgent problem, feel free to contact me first.
What should I do if I become ill while traveling or away on an extended vacation?
If the problem is minor, call me first. However, if you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately – then you can call me. With the exception of controlled substances, I will seek to accommodate your prescription requests if state/local law allows. If you seek care at an emergency room or urgent care center out of my area, you should feel free to ask the doctor seeing you to call me for coordination of your care. 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.
What if I need to see a specialist or a surgeon?
Should you request, I am available to help you decide which specialist to see and to coordinate such consultations. This will ensure the most appropriate resource is used, the earliest arrangements are made, and your applicable medical information is sent in advance of your specialist visit.
What if I have questions about my concierge enrollment or membership?
Please call (847) 432-4502 to be connected with Specialdocs Consultants, LLC, the outstanding company long respected for its expertise in concierge medicine and manages the membership aspect of my practice. They can help answer your questions related to enrollment, membership billing and renewals.