General Telehealth Questions

What is telehealth?
Telehealth allows you to consult with a licensed healthcare provider remotely using a secure video or phone platform. You can receive care from the comfort of your home without needing to travel to a clinic.

Is telehealth safe and private?
Yes. We use HIPAA-compliant platforms to ensure your privacy. All communications and medical records are confidential. We do require a driver’s license on file to ensure we are speaking to the

How do I pay for visits?
We are a cash-pay practice. Payment is collected securely online at the time of your visit. Pricing is listed on each service page of our website.

Can I use my insurance?
You may use your insurance for lab testing through LabCorp. However, we do not file insurance claims on your behalf, and reimbursement is not guaranteed.

How can I contact the clinic?
As a small, locally owned business, we prioritize quality care over high call volumes. We prefer communication via text message or our secure patient portal. Messages are returned within the next business day.

What are the advantages of choosing a small telehealth practice?
We pride ourselves on offering personalized and attentive care. Unlike larger corporate providers, we have the flexibility to spend more time with each patient, customize treatments to fit individual needs, and foster long-term relationships. Plus, we don't require membership fees or subscriptions to become a patient, so you can access care without added costs.

Weight Management Questions

Does my insurance cover GLP medications?
If you plan to use insurance for GLP medications, it's important to check coverage before your appointment. Contact your insurance provider (the customer service number is usually on the back of your insurance card) and discuss the specific medications you’re considering, like Wegovy or Zepbound for weight loss, or Ozempic and Mounjaro if you have diabetes. Be sure to ask these key questions:

• Are these medications covered if I meet the BMI requirement?

• Do I need to try other weight loss treatments first before these medications can be approved?

• What will my out-of-pocket costs be for these medications?

• Will I need a prescription or referral from a specialist (e.g., obesity medicine or endocrinology) to be covered?

• Is prior authorization (PA) required for any of these medications?

Why do you charge a prior authorization fee?
The prior authorization process can be time-consuming, as it often involves submitting detailed medical documentation and answering questionnaires to demonstrate the need for treatment. There may also be multiple back-and-forth communications with the insurance carrier. The prior authorization fee helps cover the time and resources required to complete this process efficiently. Please keep in mind that submitting the required information does not guarantee approval from the insurance company.

Are labs necessary?
Labs are typically not required, but depending on your medical history and how you respond to treatment, we may recommend that you have labs drawn at your local LabCorp. This is done on a case-by-case basis, as needed. We do accept labs from another clinic if within an appropriate time frame.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If You Miss a Single Dose:
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, as long as the next scheduled dose is more than 48 hours away. If the next dose is less than 48 hours away, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. This helps maintain steady medication levels and minimizes the risk of potential side effects.

If You Miss Two or More Doses:
If you miss two or more doses in a row, it's recommended to restart the medication at a lower dose and gradually increase it. This approach helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects, particularly in patients with a history of gastrointestinal issues or conditions like chronic kidney disease. Both expert opinions and clinical guidelines support this method.

How do I give myself an injection?
Please refer to the resources tab for instructions on administering subcutaneous injections.

Women and Men’s Health Questions

Are labs necessary?
Yes, labs are required. To get a comprehensive understanding of your hormone levels, we will order necessary lab tests through LabCorp. Once your labs are completed, you will need to schedule a follow-up appointment at least 4 business days later to discuss your results and treatment plan. It's crucial to schedule the follow-up promptly and correctly, as we cannot provide any treatment recommendations without reviewing your lab results.

How do I schedule my follow-up after labs?
You can schedule your appointment through the website or patient portal. You will want to wait at least 4 business days after having labs drawn to allow time for the results to finalize and show in LabCorp portal.

Can I receive Testosterone therapy through this practice?
Currently, we are unable to prescribe testosterone directly due to state regulations in Alabama, as testosterone is classified as a controlled substance. However, we work closely with trusted providers who can help with testosterone therapy if needed. We will be happy to refer you to a qualified specialist if needed.

Are their alternatives to synthetic testosterone?
Yes, there are natural methods to support and increase your body's own testosterone production. Before considering synthetic testosterone, we recommend trying natural supplements and medications that stimulate your body to produce more testosterone on its own. These options may help balance hormone levels without the need for synthetic treatments. We’ll discuss these options and tailor a plan that works best for you during your follow-up consultation.

How long will it take to see results from treatment?
The time it takes to see improvements can vary depending on your specific hormone imbalances and treatment plan. Some patients may notice changes within a few weeks, while others may take longer. Consistency with treatment and lifestyle changes, as well as regular follow-ups, will help track progress and adjust as necessary.

Is it common to gain weight while on treatment?
Weight gain, especially in the first few months of treatment, is often due to water retention as your body adjusts. This is common and typically resolves itself. If the weight gain continues or you have concerns, it’s a good idea to discuss it with your provider. We can help determine if the weight gain is normal, suggest adjustments to your treatment, or explore other potential causes. Remember, this is a normal part of the process, so there’s no need to worry.

I am worried about the potential risks of treatment.
It's completely understandable to have concerns, especially given the past discussions around the risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, recent research has provided us with a much clearer understanding of these treatments. Studies have shown that the risks associated with HRT are not as significant as previously believed, particularly when used appropriately and with proper monitoring.

That said, it is crucial to have an open discussion with your provider about your personal medical history and any potential risk factors. Regular lab work and routine check-ups are essential to assess your specific risks, monitor your progress, and adjust treatments as needed. This approach ensures that any treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs and health status, helping to maximize benefits while minimizing risks.

With the right monitoring and a personalized approach, many patients experience significant improvements in their quality of life with minimal risk.