What are the steps involved?
STEP 1: Contact Us
Contact us by phone or online web form to indicate that you would like an individual appointment. Our office will contact you to get some initial information and determine your areas of interest and the plan you are considering. A credit card number will also be requested at that time to reserve your appointment. You may cancel your appointment reservation up to 2 business days before it is scheduled without incurring a charge.
STEP 2: Evaluation
Your total visit may last anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours. The duration is dependent on the plan selected. Your time will be spent assessing your symptoms, taking a detailed medical history, family history, social history, review of systems, physical exam. Since your time is important, our intent is for you to be seen promptly in a comfortable and attentive manner.
STEP 3: Testing
Our preference is to order lab tests after your initial evaluation so that it is better tailored to your situation. If you already have lab work results, we ask that you bring it with you for your appointment. We are not able to order lab work prior to your visit.
STEP 4: Treatment
Following the initial assessment, some basic recommendations will be offered. We then have you return after we have compiled all the test results. All test results will be reviewed and we will offer treatment options in addition to discussing the risks and benefits of treatment. You will be offered an unrushed opportunity to ask questions.
STEP 5: Follow-Up
Wellness is not an event. It is a process. Therefore we recommend periodic follow up appointments. The timing for a follow-up appointment depends on the treatment. Medically supervised weight loss patients may be seen weekly at the start of the program.
What is the cost?
The fee varies with the level of service requested and program chosen. To make the best use of your time we recommend you schedule a time to speak by phone or preferably in person. Our program prices are listed in the plans section.
Most new patients will need three or four follow-ups during the first year of treatment while the proper dosages are determined. There may be additional costs involved. It is determined by the extent of non-routine specialized lab work, testing, and imaging. Routine initial lab tests costs ,on average, range from $100 to $400.
Does your office accept health insurance?
We do not have a relationship with health insurance companies. We will be glad to provide you with properly coded invoices that you may submit to your insurer for reimbursement. Many insurance plans will cover the cost of office visits according to their out-of-network provider schedule. Please contact your provider for more details on coverage. Payment is appreciated at time of service.
Will my insurance cover the cost of prescriptions, labs and supplements?
The answer depends on your insurance provider. Again we recommend you contact your provider. We will provide you with properly coded invoices that you may submit to your insurance carrier for reimbursement. It is not unusual for supplements, custom compounded prescriptions, and specialized testing to not be covered. They may be covered under a Flex spending account.
Do I have to come to the office for a consult.
No medical advice or treatment will be offered without a full medical evaluation that includes a physical exam.
How long before I feel results?
Some people feel results within days. Most feel results within two to six months. Also, the results of proper treatment are associated with what you don't feel (fatigue, irritability, depression, etc.)
How long is the program?
Health and wellness are a life long choice. You can remain on the program as long as you wish to see results or until you feel you have the knowledge to succeed on your own.
What is medically directed weight loss?
The fact is that most diets fail. There are a number of physiologic and behavioral reasons for it. Unlike other weight loss programs, we don’t view weight loss in itself as a success. While most non medically directed programs offer good behavioral support, they are limited in physiologic monitoring. Physiologic monitoring involves monitoring body composition, electrolyte and nutrient balance, metabolic function, lipid parameters, and glucose regulation to name a few. Medications are sometimes used to facilitate weight loss if indicated. With the latest available technology we can help you succeed and preferentially lose fat over muscle and water.
Do you offer meal replacement weight loss programs?
These programs are offered on a case by case basis. We offer a number of different programs and help match you with the one that best meets your needs.
Do I have to buy the recommended supplements or meal programs from your office?
Signature Wellness offers supplements and meal replacements in our office as a convenience to our patients. There is no obligation to purchase any product from the office. The products chosen meet high national standards for purity. They are also offered at less than normal retail value. Dr. Matthew will be happy to review your supplement or meal replacement if you choose to purchase elsewhere.
Will Signature Wellness replace my doctor?
Signature Wellness offers consulting services only. We do not replace your primary care physician who is responsible for your routine health problems and should help coordinate your care among your consultants.
Where are you located?
We are located in the Ballantyne area of Charlotte, North Carolina. For patients coming from out of state we are located minutes from the Ballantyne Resort. The facility is easily accessed from Charlotte International airport. We will gladly make hotel and transportation accommodations. <directions>
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