FAQs
How long does it take to get an appointment?
Same-day appointments are available in most cases. The "walk-in" clinic is available the next morning if it is later in the day or weekend.
What is the process for medication refills?
We ask that patients be responsible for anticipating the need for refills. Requests may take up to 24 to 48 hours to process.
How can patients view lab results?
Lab results are available for viewing on our secure patient portal after their provider has reviewed them. If a patient does not have access to the patient portal, please contact the office. If a patient does not have web access, they may request a printed copy of their lab results from their provider. We also request and encourage patients to come to the office to discuss their lab results to prevent misinterpretation and confusion.
How do patients get a referral to a specialist?
When patients need to see a specialist, their provider will create a referral for them during their office visit. Referral that is not done during a previous office visit will require a new office visit for proper documentation of reason for referral.
Whom should patients contact regarding billing or account questions?
Patients should contact the billing office at 678-319-9901.
How often do people need to get a comprehensive physical?
Women should have an annual Pap test and a mammogram after 40 and annual physical exam.
What is SIMFAP's medication "call-in" policy? Does the policy differ for narcotics?
Spectrum Internal Medicine & Family Practice (SIMFAP) does not call in most medications, as this is not a good practice. SIMFAP does NOT call in narcotics. If a patient believes they need medication to treat a health problem, they should schedule an appointment to be examined by a provider.
What is an NP?
NP stands for Nurse Practitioner. NPs obtain an education at a master's degree level. NPs are medical professionals who diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and often serve as a patient's principal healthcare provider. With thousands of hours of medical training, NPs are versatile and collaborative.
What insurance plans does SIMFAP accept?
SIMFAP participates in most HMO, PPO, and traditional indemnity insurance plans. Call the office to inquire about a particular plan. We also accept self-pay patients. SIMFAP does not accept Travel Insurance. Always call the office if you have insurance questions.
How can patients contact someone in an emergency?
Emergencies should always dial 911.
Do patients need to send old records to you prior to their first visit?
Medical records are useful to have for patients with complicated health histories, but for the most part, old records are not necessary for the first visit.
Can you treat a whole family or do children need a pediatrician?
SIMFAP treats patients as young as two years old and up to any age.
Are routine physicals covered by insurance?
Commercial insurance and managed care plan benefits for routine and preventive care vary with the plan. SIMFAP recommends that patients verify their benefits before services rendering services. Remember that having an insurance card may not mean automatic coverage for routine or preventive care. Medicare does not cover any services for routine physicals, and Medicare limits coverage for preventive medicine to specific preventive tests and exams provided according to their specific timeline of frequency.
Can specific providers be requested during the walk-in clinic?
No, not all providers are available during the walk-in clinic. Walk-in patients are seen first come/first served but we are willing to make provisions to our patients.
Can all patients be assured of total confidentiality?
All SIMFAP employees sign a confidentiality agreement regarding the use and care of patients' medical information. Confidentiality is a cardinal rule for SIMFAP. We understand our legal obligations to protect patients' privacy according to the privacy provisions of the federal law, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). Patients can ask at any time about concerns regarding privacy and confidentiality.