Common Questions

During Office Hours - If you feel your problem does not warrant a trip to the emergency room, but you feel you may need to see a doctor, call the office and one of the doctors will try to see you today or you may be advised to go to the emergency room. After Office Hours - If you are acutely ill and feel you must be seen immediately, we recommend that you go to the emergency room at Morton Plant Hospital. We will then be notified of your problem. Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is similar to a bronchoscopy with a special addition of ultrasound capabilities. This technology allows us to view enlarged lymph nodes and masses surrounding the airways. This very safe procedure allows us to biopsy abnormalities that in the past had to be done with more invasive surgery. The doctors at Bay Area Chest Physicians are among the few in the area that are capable of doing this procedure.

MAY I SPEAK WITH A DOCTOR IF I HAVE A PROBLEM OTHER THAN AN EMERGENCY?

Our office attempts to return all calls on the same day they are received. It is not possible for the doctors to talk with you immediately as they may be with another person who is also ill. The doctor will review your call and may often direct a staff member to call you. He or she may often speak with you on the telephone.

WHAT DO I DO WHEN I NEED A PRESCRIPTION FILLED?

Prescriptions will be refilled only during office hours so that we may review your chart and keep an accurate record of your medications. When you call, please give us the name and phone number of your pharmacy and the prescription refill number. We would also request that you bring a list of any medications you are taking (or the bottle) when you come to the office for an appointment.

WHAT IS THE OFFICE FINANCIAL POLICIES?

The office will file all insurance claims for all patients. This includes primary and secondary insurances. Patients are responsible for all co-payments, deductibles and co-insurance amounts at the time of service. Statements are mailed on a monthly basis to collect any monies not paid for by the insurance companies. They are due upon receipt. Self pay patients must pay at time of service.

WHAT MANAGED CARE COMPANIES DO WE PARTICIPATE WITH?

* Aetna - www.aetna.com
* BCBS/Health Options - www.bcbsfl.com/
* Careplus - www.careplus-hp.com/
* Cigna - www.cigna.com
* Freedom - www.freedomh.com
* Great West - www.mygreatwest.com
* Tricare - www.military.com/benefits/tricare
* United Healthcare - www.uhc.com/