Frequently Asked Questions
We as patients have many questions, and he will hopefully be able to answer those questions. Please see below for questions that we frequently receive and if we don’t have an answer here, feel free to contact us at [email protected]
General Questions
What is a D.O.?
A D.O. is a fully licensed physician who has completed four years of medical education and received additional training in osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT). OMT is a hands-on treatment that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and the body’s ability to heal itself.
How are D.O.s different from M.D.s?
D.O.s and M.D.s undergo similar licensing examinations and can practice medicine in accredited health care facilities. However, D.O.s tend to focus more on holistic health and prevention, and use OMT to diagnose and treat patients.
Can D.O.s perform surgery and prescribe medication?
Yes, D.O.s are fully licensed to practice medicine, including performing surgery and prescribing medication.
What should I expect from a D.O. doctor?
DOs put a heavy focus on preventive healthcare and wellness. They strive to help you not just be free of symptoms, but truly healthy in mind, body and spirit. They also recognize the role of using their hands to diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses.
Why am I seeing a nurse practitioner instead of a doctor?
Nurse practitioners and medical doctors share many of the same responsibilities. NPs have full practice authority, which means they can evaluate patients, order and interpret diagnostic tests, create and manage treatment plans, and prescribe medications–all without physician oversight.
Why is the Doctors office so cold?
This is one of the biggest mysteries that patients have been pondering for years. A doctor’s office is kept cold for a couple reasons. First, the cooler temperatures help to prevent the spread of germs. Bacteria thrive in warm environments. If physician offices were warmer, bacteria, viruses, and sickness would infest them. Additionally, nurses, doctors, and office staff are busy running around all day. The cooler temperatures prevent them from sweating. Which, in hand, also prevents the spread of germs.
Why is my payment due at time of service?
Just like most businesses you pay for the services rendered. A doctor’s office is no different. When we take payment as services are rendered for you, it keeps costs down, which in turn keeps our fees down.
Do you offer referrals to specialists?
Yes we do and as matter of fact many insurance plans require an authorization by your primary care physicisn prior to seeing the specialist. Because of this we can not provide a referral or a prior authorization if it is not given before you schedule an appointment with a specialist.