FAQs
What is a nurse practitioner?
A nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse with advanced academic and clinical experience, which enables him or her to diagnose and manage most common and many chronic illnesses, either independently or as part of a health care team. A nurse practitioner provides some care previously offered only by physicians and in most states has the ability to prescribe medications. Nurse practitioners are educated through programs that grant either a certificate or a master’s degree. A registered nurse is recommended to have extensive clinical experience before applying to a nurse practitioner program. An intensive preceptor ship under the direct supervision of a physician or an experienced nurse practitioner, as well as instruction in nursing theory, are key components to most NP programs.
What is involved in the initial intake appointment?
Initial consultations are booked at a minimum of an hour and fifteen minutes. Carrie feels this is necessary to get a complete history and understanding about client’s mental, physical, emotional and personal well-being. Together, you will both determine a plan of action to get you feeling healthy and balanced. Carrie asks that you fill out an online medical profile prior to your first appointment so she can prepare for your visit - that invitation is sent when you set up your intake appointment along with a new patient letter with directions and additional information. Please bring any recent test results with you to your first meeting.
Do you take insurance?
We are out of network with all insurance companies. Payment is due at time of service - we do not invoice. We take cash, checks, Visa, Discover and HSA cards. Carrie offers you time that other practitioners do not at a rate that is far below most. We hope you will recognize the value of her advice and care and continue to let her manage your care. We are happy to provide you with a super bill to submit to your insurance company as an out of network provider for any possible reimbursement.
Do you do annual exams and physicals?
Carrie does, but insurance limits those to 30 minutes and only once per year. You must already be an established patient before you can set up an annual exam.
How do I get an RX refilled?
You have several choices. The most efficient way is to message Carrie directly in the portal with the drug name, dosage, quantity, name and address of pharmacy.
You can always request at your pharmacy and they will send us a fax to refill - this could take several days. Please allow for time, we take care of every fax by the end of every business day. If we haven't filled it that is because we did not receive it. Please be mindful of the amount of medication you have left and allow one week to get your refill taken care of.
What do you charge?
The cost of an initial is $468.75 for a 75 min appointment. (More time can be scheduled in 15 minute blocks) . For follow up appointments you pay for the time booked at a $375 per hour rate. We schedule in 15 minute blocks. ie -30 min is $187.50 charge, 45 min is $281.25 etc. This does not include any lab or specialty testing. We do not invoice and payment is due at time of service. It is a requirement that the initial intake appointment be 75 minutes as Carrie reviews your medical history in advance but needs this full time in order to get to know you, your lifestyle, mindset and concerns. She is unable to order testing prior to you becoming a patient.
Are tests covered?
Many tests are out of pocket and you purchase with us. Some take insurance and you pay them directly a minimum amount and put it through your insurance company. We do not do blood work here, so if needed Carrie will give you a script which you will take to whatever facility that you might be covered under. Every test is different. Most blood work is covered by insurance but it is up to you to clarify with your insurance company what and where is within your plan. Costs are lab dependent and you would have to contact them for costs and codes then contact your insurance company to see what is covered and what is self pay. We do not have access to this information.
What are your most common tests?
Food sensitivity, urine tests, blood work, saliva tests, stools tests, SIBO, metals tests etc.
Do you carry supplements?
Yes, we carry pharmaceutical grade high quality natural supplements here in the office for your convenience. You can always stop by to get something you need during office hours (M, W, Th) or we can ship them to you (Minimum $8 freight charge) or we can charge your credit card and arrange a spot for you to pick up after hours. We do take products back provided they are unopened.
Can I book an appointment online?
If you are an established patient you may book an IV online via your patient portal access, however we are not yet set up to book appointments to see Carrie - you will need to call the office for those.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule and appointment we ask you give us at least 24 hours notice via phone message, phone call, or email in order to allow us to fill it for those on our waiting list. No shows are charged the full amount of the appointment at the $375/hour rate. We are happy to reschedule. Emergency situations are taken on a case by case basis by Carrie.
New Patients Please Note: We require a credit card to hold your initial intake appointment - it will not be charged unless you do not show up for your appointment. We request 24 hour cancellation notice to avoid being charged. Thank you.
