Frequently asked questions
Do I still need health insurance?
Yes, we recommend that our patients obtain or continue to have health insurance to cover for hospitalizations, surgeries, and any services not personally provided by our practice staff and included in the membership.
- Health insurance is still recommended for emergencies such as ER visits and hospital admissions
- Insurance may be used for lab tests, imaging studies, and specialty care when needed
Provides coverage for unexpected or serious health events beyond primary care
Why don’t you accept insurance?
Under the direct primary care (DPC) model of healthcare, families pay a monthly membership fee and, in exchange, I serve as the primary care doctor for your children. This takes insurance and its many extra costs and restrictions out of the relationship — which means that YOU get more of my time and attention. Eliminating insurance allows the practice to provide better, less expensive and more personal care by eliminating the huge and ever-increasing administrative burdens that insurance plans demand and which have nothing to do with patient care (data collecting, pre-authorizations, extensive, and repetitive busywork, etc.). These burdens substantially increase overhead expenses, staffing and time requirements. By not accepting insurance DPC practices are able to re-direct the time and resources you save to actual patient care
Is DPC the same as concierge medicine?
No. Though they are similar in the sense that they are a membership model of care. Concierge medical practices usually bill a higher fee, in addition to the patient’s health insurance for their services. The DPC depends on membership fees to cover its costs and does not charge health insurance for services provided. Concierge practices generally charge an annual Concierge
fee averaging from $1800 to $15,000. They also require and bill insurance and
the patient pays and remains responsible for insurance copays and deductibles.
But my child is really healthy and only sees the pediatrician for well exams. Where's the benefit in paying a monthly fee for that?
Our services include more than just the well child visits. What is invaluable is – when your child comes down with a sudden illness – knowing your child will be able to see the doctor they know and trust exactly when they need it. Not going to an urgent care and being seen by somebody that really knows your child can make a big difference. Also priceless, is knowing that if your child becomes ill while travelling, your very own doctor (who knows their history) is just a telehealth visit away.
Many families, even with healthy children, find themselves using the internet for answers that are not always reliable. As a member, you can contact Dr. Tanase directly, who knows your specific situation, and receive personalized advice—potentially avoiding an expensive visit to the ER or Urgent Care. One Urgent Care visit can be equivalent to months of membership.
What is the value I am getting in exchage of the membership fee?
Dr. Tanase is one of the few pediatricians in Arizona who is board certified in both general pediatrics and integrative medicine and practices full-scope pediatrics within the direct care model. She had to undergo extensive additional education and training to offer this unique approach to care. The practice keeps its prices as low as it can considering the expertise, time, and attention that goes into offering truly compassionate and integrative care for children and their families
Why is there an enrollment fee?
The enrollment fee helps cover the up-front costs of an initial visit and records review so Dr. Tanase can get to know your child and their health history.
How can I schedule an appointment?
If you are new to the practice please submit your application above and we will respond within one business week.
If you are going to have an initial meet and greet, could ask your questions and schedule an onboarding visit at that time.
If you are an established member you can self schedule through the patient portal for non-urgent appointments or text Dr. Tanase directly for urgent appointments.
Walks in are not accepted.
What if my family is on vacation?
This is actually one of the benefits, the VIP clinic will be your medical home even if you are out of town. We will do our best to help you from afar via Telemedicine or phone/text. Occasionally, depending on the nature of the illness, the child might still need to be seen locally for further evaluation or treatment.
What if I need to cancel my membership?
Not a problem We would be sorry to see you go, but if need be, you can cancel your membership any time with just 30 days written notice.
What if my child has to go to the ER or is admitted to the hospital?
Dr. Tanase devotes her time to her office practice, so unfortunately cannot see patients in the ER or while admitted to the hospital. Your child will be cared for by the appropriate physicians in the hospital or ER by, and Dr. Tanase can communicate with them to plan for management once they are discharged.
What is your stance on vaccines?
Dr. Tanase is a vaccine friendly pediatrician and honors the wishes and beliefs of the families that are seeking to make the best choices for their children. We do not currently provide vaccines in-office, but Dr. Tanase will discuss vaccine recommendations with you and provide guidance on where to most conveniently obtain the vaccines (e.g., the health department).