Our extensive training and experience is THE KEY to ensure a correct diagnosis, select an appropriate treatment, and provide explanations, education, and realistic expectations to our patients so that they can make wise decisions about their own health.
We believe that each of our patients owns the responsibility for their health, and respect their own decisions. We always want to know if there is a problem or concern about a prescribed treatment, and try to find a possible solution or an alternative.
We will deliver our quality care in a timely manner. We understand that our patients’ time is valuable as ours. Strictly operating according to our appointment schedule will keep every patient on their schedule without scarifying quality of care of all the patients.
Annual preventive examinations ("check ups") are an important opportunity to screen for health issues that may not have any symptoms. These visits are often the only dedicated time to ensure that our patients are up to date on immunizations and other screenings (for cancer, heart-disease, and mental health). Most importantly, we rely on annual check-ups to build a relationship and familiarity with each patient so that we can provide timely care for you if you ever do become ill.
We understand that health-care is complicated and often very expensive. We also understand that many diseases are self limited. We discourage excessive use of extra unnecessary testing. We will commit to protect your health while keeping your medical cost at a reasonable level. Paradoxically, unnecessary testing can sometimes lead to more harm than good. If there is a particular test you were hoping for, discuss it with the doctor so we can help decide whether it is likely to be beneficial.
FACE TO FACE TIME MEANS QUALITY CARE
Despite the pressures from insurance companies and managed care, we believe that the only way to deliver quality care is to spend time with our patients. That is why we do not overload our schedules. That is why you will always see a doctor when you come in with a problem or concern. We know that many problems cannot be accurately diagnosed without a face-to-face visit. Therefore, for your safety, we avoid diagnosing or treating new problems over the telephone.
We respect that our patients have commitments at work and at home, and we value your time as much as our own. This is why we strive to see sick patients on the same day (or within 24 hours) whenever possible.
HOW TO SURVIVE THE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
Studies have shown that seeing Family Doctor improves health and reduces your overall health-care expenses. We all wish that health-care was simple. But since most health-care now involves third-party insurance companies, many of which are paid for by employers, there are many rules and restrictions.
Most of the time, we can still deliver effective care within the constraints of these plans. But there are times when the best treatment may not be "covered" by insurance. We believe that your health is the number one priority, and safety should not be compromised just to help save a large company a few dollars.
Your doctor will help navigate the complexities of the system, and help find reasonable ways to manage your health in a desirable manner.
