Frequently Asked Questions
I understand that it is important to get an appointment as soon as possible. If I am able to accept new patients, I do my best to schedule an appointment quickly. If I am not able to accept new patients, I maintain a cancellation list and try to fit people in when openings become available. This can work well for people whose schedule is flexible during the day.
The first appointment is one hour long. In this appointment, we will gather history, define what needs to be treated, and work on an accurate diagnosis. If time allows. We will discuss treatment plan options and, if needed, medication may be started that first day. If we cannot get through all the information we schedule a second longer appointment.
There are many factors that contribute to the decision regarding if medication is an indicated treatment for you. We will start to figure this out at the first appointment. Sometimes starting with therapy is the best option. Therapy can help address the causes of distress and behavior patterns that get in the way of progress. In many cases, a combination of medication and therapy can lead to sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being.
To avoid being charged in full for a missed appointment, please provide 48-hour notice for your cancellation.
Due to physician licensing laws, I can only see people that are physically located in CT at the time of the visit. You can live out of state, but you must be in CT for the appointment.
Federal laws regarding telepsychiatry have been evolving since the pandemic. The DEA has put certain restrictions on hold (regarding requirements for an in-office visit before prescribing controlled substances). Depending on where the laws stand, it may be necessary for you to come into the office before I can prescribe certain medications.
If we have scheduled a telepsychiatry visit, you can download Zoom onto your phone or computer. Zoom provides HIPAA compliant video conferencing. You will connect with me by clicking on a link in Zoom to “join a meeting”. You will then be asked to enter a meeting room ID. This is always my phone number: 203 906 6294 This will bring you to my virtual waiting room and I will let you in at the time of your appointment.
You can also click on this link here to bring you to my meeting room.
I am not on any insurance plans and am considered an out-of-network provider.
I have Opted-Out of Medicare which means you will not be able to get any reimbursement for visits with me. If you are on Medicare you will need to sign a “private contract” required by Medicare that acknowledges you are aware you will not be covered and that you would be covered if you saw a physician who takes Medicare
Medicaid does not cover (or reimburse) for out-of network visits.
Out-of-network means I am not a contracted provider on your insurance plan. If you would like to seek reimbursement for your visits, call your insurance to find out what your out-of-network benefits are. It is important to find out what your deductible is, and then once your deductible is met, what percent the insurance company will reimburse you for visits. Payment is expected at the time of service and any reimbursement from the insurance will be paid directly to you. If you are on Medicaid or Medicare you will not be covered for out-of-network visits.
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between doctors and patients. No information is disclosed without prior written permission. However, there are some exceptions to this rule that are required by law. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse, dependent adult, or elder abuse. The physician is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, the physician is required to notify the police.
- If a patient intends to harm themselves, the physician will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
