Direct care is a model of medical practice that removes the middlemen (non medical administrators and insurance companies) from the doctor-patient interaction. This care model involves direct payment by the patient to the doctor for services rendered. This approach allows for decisions to be made in the best interest of the patient, shorter wait times for appointments, more face-to-face time with your doctor, and much better access overall.

No, we are not in network with any insurance plans and we do not bill insurance for any services provided. We will see anyone regardless of insurance coverage or lack thereof.

Patients with private health insurance that have out of network coverage, may be able to get a reimbursement for medical visits with Dr Haggar. It is advisable patients call their insurance company to determine eligibility and requirements for reimbursement prior to a visit. We do not submit any claims on behalf of patients, and cannot guarantee that a patient’s insurance will reimburse any portion of the fees paid to Northshore Endocrinology and Diabetes.

Yes, absolutely.

Most new patient visits can be accommodated within 1-2 weeks, or sooner if urgent. The first visit is preferred to be in person. Subsequent visits can be scheduled in person or virtually.

No. Concierge medicine involves a patient paying an annual or monthly fee for 24/7 access to a physician in addition to any deductibles or fees required by their insurance plan. The physician still bills a patient’s insurance company for services rendered. In direct care, the patient pays the doctor directly for services rendered. His or her insurance company is not billed.

Possibly. Patients who have insurance with high deductibles or high in-network coinsurance costs and out-of-pocket maximums will likely save money in a direct care model where the fees tend to be lower. It is difficult to predict what the cost differences will be because the visit fees charged by in-network practices are often not transparent and patients are usually unaware of the charge until the bill arrives.

Yes. We recommend that our patients maintain health insurance coverage at all times in case of catastrophic medical events requiring hospitalization or surgery. We also recommend that our patients maintain regular follow up with their primary care provider.

Yes. However, please be aware that Dr. Haggar has opted out of Medicare. By law, Medicare cannot be billed for her services. You as the patient cannot request reimbursement from Medicare for fees paid to Dr. Haggar. A private contract stating these terms must be signed by you and the doctor and kept in your chart as per requirements set forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.