This page contains an ever-growing list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about my practice.
Q: Are you accepting new patients?
A: No. We stopped taking new patients on June 1st, 2019. We’ll update this page when we’re able to accept new patients again. In the meantime, please visit this page for a list of other providers.
Q: Do you take insurance?
A: No. I’m out of network with all health plans.
Q: Why don’t you take insurance?
A: It’s too complicated and expensive for a solo practitioner.
Q: Will my insurance pay for visits with you?
A: Possibly. Please visit this page for more details.
Q: What are your fees?
A: Please contact us for our current fee schedule.
Q: Do you see patients with Medical Assistance?
A: Generally not. Please visit this page for more details.
Q: How often do I need to see you?
A: We don’t have any hard and fast rules. Visit frequency depends on each patient’s individual circumstances.
Q: Do you prescribe Suboxone?
A: Yes. I’ve been prescribing buprenorphine (Suboxone and other brand names) since 2005.
Q: Do you treat chronic pain?
A: Yes, but only if you also have a history of addiction.
Q: Do you prescribe benzodiazepines and stimulants?
A: Sometimes. But that’s a leading question.
Here’s what’s usually behind that question: “Will you prescribe a benzodiazepine or stimulant to me?” Or: “Will you take responsibility for my current prescription for a controlled substance?”
I can’t and won’t answer those questions without the benefit of a comprehensive, in-person evaluation. Please seek care elsewhere if you need guarantees about prescription controlled substances.
Q: Do you certify patients for medical cannabis?
A: Very rarely. Again, that’s a leading question.
Here’s what’s usually behind that question: “Will you certify me for medical cannabis?” Or: “Will you take responsibility for my existing certification medical cannabis?”
I can’t and won’t answer those questions without the benefit of a comprehensive, in-person evaluation. Please seek care elsewhere if you need guarantees about medical cannabis.
Q: Is it okay to get prescriptions for controlled substances from other providers?
A: Generally not. Possible exceptions include pain medications for serious injuries and surgeries.
Q: Would it be okay if another provider certified me for medical cannabis?
A: No. And we will direct you to transfer all of your care to that provider if you are certified elsewhere.
Q: Do you charge a fee for cancelled appointments?
A: Yes. We charge $50 for appointments that are cancelled with less than 24 hours notice. We also charge $100 for unkept appointments (“no shows”).
Q: Do you ever fire patients?
A: Yes. Unpaid bills is the top reason that we terminate care. Trouble keeping appointments—“no shows” and repeated cancellations—is another common reason.