Got Questions? We've Got Answers
Everything you need to know about membership, pricing, and how care works at Highland Hope. Don't see your question? Reach out and we'll help.
You are a DPC. How is that different from a typical clinic?
In most clinics, the providers are compensated by government or private insurance payers, and the patient is often charged for part of the bill (which sometimes is an unwelcomed surprise). In our substantial experience within a typical clinic setting, the cost is greatly inflated for the insurance company, the office, and more significantly, the patient. A DPC (Direct Primary Care) clinic cuts out the middleman between the patient and the doctor. This results in better care and lower costs.
Is there a limit to how many times per month I can come to see the doctor?
No, there is no limit. If we think it is becoming excessive and medically unnecessary, we will talk with you about that. For legitimate medical questions or concerns, you may come as often as you need to without any additional charges.
Do I pay $30/month for each member of my family, or is there a special family discount plan?
You will need to pay $30/month for every member of your family that you want us to examine and treat. This is still way below the family discount rates of most insurance plans (unless you have 12 or more children). This is far below the average family plan for a DPC clinic.
Can I cancel any time, without any penalty or further fees, if I need to terminate the service?
Yes, you may cancel your membership with us at any time for any reason without any cancellation penalties. However, should you wish to re-establish your membership there will be a renewal fee.
Why are your prices so low?
It is our desire to provide high quality medical service to the rural community of Rogersville. To help with this, the State of Tennessee has helped to fund our clinic in order to provide high quality medical services to Tennessee residents who might otherwise not be able to afford this quality of medical care. So, the State of Tennessee is actually paying for part of your membership fees. That is why our prices are so low.
If I want to use my Medicare, Medicaid, or other insurance, can I do that?
We will not ever file your payments with your insurance company. If you want to negotiate with them about payments you have already made, that is between you and your insurance company. It can be surprisingly expensive for a medical practice to seek payments from insurance companies, so we have no desire to be involved with any insurance companies (private or government). That is part of why we can keep our costs so low. However, should you require significant tests or imaging that we have ordered but not performed, those might be billed by the facility providing the services. If you do not have insurance, those services will be self-pay by you, and are between you and the performing facility.
Can I be a patient if I have Medicare?
Yes! You will still pay the normal monthly membership fee of $30 because our office will never bill your Medicare. Having Medicare may be useful for you in paying for outside imaging, referrals, and medications.
What days of the week are you open and what are your hours?
We are open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday (NOT Wednesday) from 9am till 5pm, even if it is a federal holiday. If you need an urgent visit outside of these hours, please contact Dr. Timmis and she will work to get a time that is suitable for you.
What types of "labs and procedures" will you charge additional fees for?
If you need a lab test such as a blood test, a urine test, or an office procedure, there will be a low additional fee that you will approve before we provide that service. You may decline any additional service after being made aware of the fee. Please see our Special Services Price List for more information.
If I need a special lab or procedure, how will I be charged and how long will I have to pay?
You can pay by check or cash or card in the office at the time of the service.
How often will I get charged for additional lab or procedure fees?
For most patient consults and services, there will be no additional fees. Additional fees will only be charged after your approval is given.
Will I be informed of any additional fees before I get charged so I can decline them if I want?
Yes.
What if I will need surgery or labs or procedures you do not provide?
If we do not provide a service you need, we will refer you to a hospital or specialist when that becomes necessary.
Where is your office located and will there be adequate parking available?
TBD
If I pay by check or cash, is there an option to pay by the quarter or by the year so I don't have to go through a payment process every month?
Yes, that actually is our preference.
Are all your doctors board certified?
Yes, both Dr. Grace Timmis and Dr. Christian Timmis are Board Certified physicians in Family Medicine.
Do I need to make an appointment, or can I just walk-in without one?
For your convenience, we prefer you make an appointment because appointments have priority over walk-ins. You can just walk-in if you are having difficulty making an appointment, but you may have to wait if there is an appointment ahead of you.
If I make an appointment and then miss it because something comes up at the last minute, will I be charged some sort of "no-show" fee for that appointment?
No. No penalty charge will be assessed if you miss an appointment for any reason.
If I don't use your service one month, do I still have to pay for that month?
Yes, we are a subscription membership service. If you are a subscribed member, we will give you service. If you have previously cancelled your membership and want to rejoin, there will be a renewal fee.