Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is Direct Primary Care?
The Direct Primary Care or DPC Model allows doctors to spend more time doing the things that matter: taking care of your family. By choosing not to accept insurance, DPC doctors can see fewer patients and offer many services for the price of a predictable monthly membership.
With longer visits, predictable costs, minimal wait times, and direct access to the doctor, DPC is changing the healthcare landscape. It is patient-centered healthcare, not governed by insurance companies.
A monthly membership fee gives your child access to Dr. Jacobson for scheduled well-visits, unexpected sick visits, and visits for many other common pediatric questions, concerns, and illnesses, and allows for the development of long-lasting relationships.
What are your hours of operation?
As a member you will have access to contact a physician 24/7. For all urgent needs, your call will be answered any time of the day or night. For overnight non-emergencies and non-urgencies, you will receive a response in the morning. You may schedule appointments or a meet and greet online or call/text/email for an appointment.
How often should my child see the pediatrician?
If your child is well, we follow the AAP well check guidelines and see your child per their schedule. If your child is sick, they should be seen by a pediatrician. You will have the opportunity to text, call, or email Dr. Jacobson to see how your child’s condition can be addressed either in person or virtually.
When should I call the pediatrician?
When you have a concern about your child, you should text/email/call us during day hours 7am-10pm. If you have an urgent matter after hours, please call Dr. J directly; for non-urgent after hours, you can text/email, and we will get back to you in the morning.
How do you feel about vaccinations?
Dr. Jacobson practices evidence based medicine and believes that every parent should understand the risks and benefits of vaccines. If you do not intend to vaccinate your child, our practice is not a good fit for you. (exceptions include COVID & influenza vaccines – happy to discuss what is best for your family)
Are vaccinations included in the membership?
Vaccines are important and will be billed to your insurance through a 3rd party vendor when possible. If your insurance does not cover vaccines, we will offer a cash price or encourage the use of the health department.
Billing Questions
What health insurance plans do you accept?
Personal Pediatrics is considered an out of network provider and does not participate in insurance plans.
Do I still need health insurance?
While not required for membership, we strongly recommend families to have insurance coverage. Your membership is not a substitute for your insurance. Hospital bills, laboratory testing, imaging, and medications can be a burden. You may choose to switch to a different insurance plan or a healthshare plan. Please discuss options with your insurance company for guidance. We recommend a PPO plan to help with specialist referrals.
What forms of payment do you take?
We accept credit card, debit card or direct bank withdrawal monthly payments.
Can I use my HSA or FSA Account for Membership?
It is best to check with your employer’s human resources department to see if the use of your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Savings Account (FSA) can be used for your membership.
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Phone
210-640-7234
Fax
210-674-9083
Address
18838 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 202
San Antonio, TX 78258