FAQ
What insurance carriers does Arthritis & Osteoporosis Center of Coastal Bend accept?
Please check eligibility and authorization for all procedures and infusion services prior to office visits.
- AARP MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT ONLY
- AETNA/AETNA MEDICARE
- BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD COMMERCIAL PLANS
- BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD FEDERAL
- CIGNA MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT ONLY
- CHRISTUS HEALTH PLANS
- FRIDAY HEALTH PLANS
- HUMANA PLANS
- SUPERIOR MEDICAID
- TRICARE PRIME
- TRICARE SELECT
- TRIWEST
- TRADITIONAL MEDICAID
- TRADITIONAL MEDICARE
- WELLMED
Do I need a referral for my insurance to see the doctor or have a test in the office?
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. Please call the office to find out if self referral is appropriate or you could 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.
What do I need to bring for my appointment?
Please bring your insurance card(s), any pertinent medical records or x-rays, a list of medicines you are taking and a method of payment for your health services. 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 30 minutes before your appointment time to complete paperwork or you may complete forms as indicated below.
Are there forms I can fill out in advance of my appointment?
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.
What happens if I am late for my appointment?
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.
Do I have to pay at the time of my appointment?
Yes. If we participate with your insurance and the proper referral(s) are in place, you are only responsible for any deductibles, co-insurance or co-pays your insurance requires. All funds are payable in full at the time of your visit. If we do not accept your insurance or the proper referral is not in place then you will be required to pay in full for your visit. Any services that are not paid for in full on the same day will require payment of the full charge, to include checks presented at the time of service that are later returned for insufficient funds. If during any visits to the office, there is a balance on your account, our staff has been directed to collect the balance in addition to any deductibles, co-insurance or co-pays before your appointment.