Frequently Asked Questions
My child is healthy, why do I need a membership?
That's great! We want them to stay that way. I am also here for you and your child as your advocate. Creating a strong relationship with your primary care doctor leads to better health outcomes. A true medical home is the best care for your child. I love to practice motivational coaching and guide you to reach your personal family goals. Also, I will be there for the not so great times. One trip to the Emergency Room can be more than an entire YEAR of membership and many hours. It will be me seeing your child instead of someone you’ve never met. It will be me answering your middle of the night questions, not a random person in another city. I will be 100% there for your child. I am truely loyal to my patients and will do what I can to avoid unecessary ER visits.
What if my child gets sick after hours?
If you are a member, you will have my cell phone number, no advice line or hoops you have to jump through. Together we will decide what the next best step is and make a plan. It is a huge peace of mind to be able to chat with your pediatrician directly, even in the middle of the night! I want to be here for you when you need me the most.
Can you see us in the hospital?
Yes. For all new babies who enroll with Up North Pediatrics ahead of time, I will visit you and your baby at Munson Hospital after you deliver! If you plan to breastfeed, I will help you with latching. This early support is essential in establishing breastfeeding. I recommend setting up a meet and greet before delivery to ensure we are a good fit.
Do you do house calls?
Yes! Baby's first visit is done in the comfort of your home if you choose. If you are interested in a house call only plan, please contact me to discuss.
What do we do if my child gets sick while we are out of town?
Because I know your child so well, I can take care of your child with a virtual visit and call in prescriptions if needed.
What if my child needs to see a specialist?
It works the same way! I have the same referral network and can refer to any specialist in Michigan. The specialist you see will bill your insurance or offer other options of payment.
What about labs, imaging and medications?
It works the same way! Typically when you get lab and imaging services or go to the pharmacy they will bill your insurance. I have also negotiated at-cost laboratory testing, options for cash based imaging services, as well as common whole-sale medications dispensed to you right from my office saving you time and money.
What is your vaccine policy?
I recommend that all children follow the CDC recommended vaccine schedule. I welcome anyone who is vaccine hesitant to check out my practice. I am happy to take the time to walk you through each one and discuss why it is done. I personally give the shots and encourage breastfeeding if applicable and use pain mitigation strategies. If you chose not to vaccinate for childhood vaccines,I may not be the best fit for your family.
How do I join the practice?
It is easy! You can call, text or email to learn more and see if we are a good fit for your needs. If so, we can complete the enrollment process within 15 minutes.
Do you take insurance?
No. Up North Pediatrics does not participate in any insurance plans. This allows me to provide the personalized care your child needs with flexibility and freedom. All of our services are included in the membership fees. No co-pays and no surprise bills! Some patients can use HSA funds to cover the cost of the medical services. You can consult with your tax accountant. We can charge monthly or yearly and provide an invoice.
Do I still need insurance?
Yes. Up North Pediatrics is not a health insurance plan. We recommend that all families carry a separate health insurance plan for your catastrophic care.
Any out-of-office procedures, labs, radiology, referral visits and in-patient hospitalizations will be billed to your insurance by those providers or clinics.
We accept those who do not have insurance as well. This is a great option for those who need a medical home and want to reduce their ER or urgent care needs.
Do you offer discounts for large families?
Yes! I have a family max and offer discounts for more than 1 child. I am happy to discuss pricing during our meet and greet.
What is your cancellation policy?
There is a 3 month mininum. Membership can be cancelled anytime provided a written 30 day notice is given via email or letter. If you leave, there are no fees or penalties. If you have prepaid for 1 year, you will be reimbursed for unused months. If you stop and rejoin, there is a $200 reactivation fee per child and no guarantee you will have a spot. My goal is to be your medical home and get to know you and your child, not serve as an urgent care for stand alone concerns.
What if Dr.C is on vacation?
I will always do my best to give you a notice for any planned absences. I will still do all virtual care including texting, video chats and phone calls when I am in the country. For times when I am more than 24hrs away, they will be a covering provider who can see you for in person urgent needs.
Do you see non-members?
No. At this time I am only providing care for members of the practice. Please contact me if you are interested in joining.