Update 4/5/2023: Masks are now optional per CDC and CDPH guidelines. If you would like your provider to wear a mask during your visit, please let us know.
We continue to request that you remain free of cold or flu symptoms, fever, or recent exposure to COVID19 for the safety of our patients and staff.
Please use our website contact form for scheduling, questions, or concerns or email medicalstaff@coastalfamilyderm.com
While we will remain operational and are working hard to minimize the negative impact on service, patients should expect longer call wait times and slower email response times until this crisis passes. Our staff are busy making many outgoing phone calls in addition to answering the regular heavy call volume.
How to prepare for in-office visit:
- A facial covering (mask, bandana, scarf) is now optional.
- As always, the rooms will be sanitized according to our healthcare protocol between each patient visit.
What program do I need to participate in telemedicine?
- For Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Macbooks) we will use FaceTime
- For cell phones equipped with a camera and texting capabilities we will use Doximity, no app required
- Our online visit service via HealthLens is still active, where patients may complete a visit by uploading photos
How do I prepare for my telemedicine visit?
- Please make sure you are in a private, quiet place with adequate lighting. Ideally a room in your home without too many windows.
- Clothing should be able to be removed easily and readily to allow for examination.
- Having an additional person in the room that can be of assistance in holding the camera of your phone over hard-to-reach-areas can also be helpful.
- In some cases it is helpful to take photos of the areas of concern to show as well. Click here for a guide to taking the best photos.
Will my insurance cover the visit for telemedicine?
- Medicare: On March 17, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has broadened access to Medicare telehealth services so that beneficiaries can receive a wider range of services from their doctors without having to travel to a healthcare facility. This currently applies to existing patients. New patients can still be seen, however the visit may not be covered. On average a first time telemedicine visit is $65.
- Commercial plans: Additionally, in an unprecedented move – all commercial insurers are allowing telemedicine, even in states that did not have “parity laws” that recognized telemedicine visits as equal to an in-person visit. While your normal co-payment will still apply, we will collect that over the phone or you will receive a bill for that as well.
Our primary goal is to continue to provide care as much as possible that will also maintain the health and safety of YOU – our patients, our staff, their families, and the community at large. We are actively monitoring recent COVID-19 guidelines. Thank you again for your patience, understanding, and kindness during this challenging time.
Be well, be safe, and stay home.
Respectfully,
The entire team at Coastal Dermatology + Aesthetics
