F.A.Q. for Patients and Professionals
How do I refer patients to your clinic?
Patients may call us directly at (225) 293-6973 and our friendly staff will explain our practice model, fees and services, and offer to schedule an appointment for them. Patients can typically be seen within two weeks or less. Alternatively, referring office staff may call or fax the patient name, phone numbers and any pertinent office records/test results to (225) 293-0788 and we will contact the patient directly.
How much time will I actually spend with the Doctor?
The Ear and Balance Institute is very unique in it’s approach toward patient-doctor relationships. While in most clinics you may spend five minutes with a doctor who is rushing to see as many patients as possible, at our clinic patients usually spend an hour or more with the doctor during their first visit. There is no substitute for genuine “face-to-face” time between patients and doctors for discussions of important issues and concerns. You will not be rushed and all of your questions will be answered.
What is the clinic’s financial policy?
Please see our Financial Policy page.
Are all patients at liberty to be seen in the oto-neurology clinic regardless of insurance status?
Yes. Since the clinic is driven by patient power (direct patient-doctor payment at time of visit), patients with or without insurance are welcome. Since we are not contracted with any third party insurance companies, Medicaid or Medicare, the clinic is open to all patients regardless of age, insurance plan, or financial status. The fact that we are not contracted with third parties does not mean that we will not see patients who are contracted with these entities. People without insurance are welcome. Patients with HMOs, PPOs, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are all welcome. Even the indigent patients are welcome. A receipt is provided to the patient at the conclusion of the visit which records all the pertinent coding information required for out-of-network processing. Patients are encouraged to submit these bills to their private insurance carriers, with whom they have a contract, for potential consideration and reimbursement.
Can patients with private insurance obtain out-of-network reimbursement?
Yes. Patients with PPO insurance have been obtaining reimbursement after their out-of-network deductibles have been met. Should patients with HMO insurance wish to obtain out-of-network reimbursement, a referral authorization is required. This authorization does not preclude the requirement that patients pay us directly at the time of visit. However, the authorization increases the likelihood that the insurance company will reimburse the patient for the visit.
Do you see patients involved in worker’s compensation cases and/or litigation?
Yes. The nature of our training and subspecialty places us in a unique position to evaluate, treat and render expert opinion for patients who present with tinnitus, sound sensitivity, hearing loss, vertigo, and dizziness after automobile accidents, head injury, occupational noise trauma, and other unfortunate situations. As with all other patients, payment is required at the time of service.