Frequently Asked Questions
Office Policies
Q: What insurance carriers does Pacific Arthritis Care Center accept?
Access Medical Group (HMO)
Aetna PPO
Bay Area Community Medical Group (HMO)
BeechStreet PPO
Blue Cross PPO
Blue Shield PPO
Cigna PPO
HealthNet PPO
Humana PPO
Medicare
Medi-Medi
PacifiCare PPO
United Healthcare PPO
ALL OTHER HEALTH PLANS - We will submit your claim to your insurance as a courtesy.
(This list is subject to change. Please call for the most up-to-date information.) top
Q: Do I need a referral for my insurance to see the doctor or have a test in the office?
A: Most HMO plans require a written referral for any care outside of your primary physician. Other insurance plans may or may not require pre-authorization. If you are unsure, you should ask your primary doctor's office or your insurance company. Our policy is that if you come for an appointment without a referral and your insurance requires one, you may pay in full for your visit or be rescheduled. Acquiring the proper referral is ultimately the patient's responsibility. top
Q: What do I need to bring for my appointment with?
A: Please bring your insurance card(s), any pertinent medical records or x-rays, and a list of medicines you are taking. Also, it is important to make sure you have the proper referral for your insurance if it is required. Please also remember to show up about 15 minutes before your appointment time to complete paperwork. top
Q: Are there forms I can fill out in advance of my appointment?
A: Absolutely.
For faster service, a list of forms is available for printout online. If you need assistance completing any forms, please call our office during business hours. New patients can decrease their wait time by printing out all relevant forms here and bringing to your appointment. top
Q: What happens if I am late for my appointment?
A: You may be asked to reschedule. Speak with the front desk staff if you arrive late and they will determine whether the doctor can see you.
Missed appointments or appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice may
incur a $50 rescheduling fee. top
Q: Do I have to pay at the time of my appointment?
A: Yes. If we participate with your insurance and the proper referral(s) are in place you are only responsible for any co-pays your insurance may require. If we do not accept your insurance or the proper referral is not in place then you will be required to pay for your visit unless other prior arrangements are made.
If during any visits to the office, there is a balance on your account, our
staff has been directed to ask you to make a payment at that time to cover the
balance in addition to any co-pays. top
Q: Does the office accept credit cards for payment?
A: Yes. We accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express for payments, in addition to cash, check, or money orders. Returned checks will be assessed a $25 overdraft charge. top
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