Frequently Asked Questions


What if I don't know what immunizations my child needs?
As our children get older, we know how difficult it can be to keep track of their immunization history and current needs.  Below is a summary of the recommendations. 
Recommended immunizations for children ages 11 years-18 years:
  • DtaP booster (protects against diptheria, tetanus and pertussis).  This is for those who have already completed the recommended childhood vaccination series.
  • Meningococcal (Menactra brand. Protects against some strains of a particularly dangerous bacteria that causes meningitis)
  • For girls:  HPV (Gardasil brand. Protects against cervical cancer).  This is a series of 3 shots given at particular intervals.
  • Annual influenza
In addition to the above, for this age group to be current on all vaccine recommendations they should have had in their lifetime:
  • A total of 2 MMR vaccines
  • A total of 2 Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccines or history of having the disease
  • A total of 3 Hep B
  • A total of 2 Hep A
  • A total of 4 IPV (Polio)

Our offices are happy to administer immunizations.  Please contact our office for an appointment and be sure to bring your complete records.

If your child is uninsured, our local County Clinics provide vaccines at a low cost.  Contact the Nevada County Public Health Office at (530) 582-7814 for an appointment or the Placer County Clinic located at 8665 Salmon Ave in Kings Beach accepts walk-ins on Fridays 8am-11am and 1-3pm.

Click the links below for more information on required immunizations:

 

Is there a low cost laboratory where I can have my tests done?

If you don't mind traveling to Reno, St. Mary's offers a lower cost program that may help you with getting the laboratory tests that your doctor has recommened completed.  Visit St Mary's Community Well Check for more information.

Where can I find information about prescription medication financial assistance?

You can find out more by clicking this link to NeedyMeds.  This site provides information on medicine and healthcare assistance programs. 

Did my insurance respond yet?

Please check with your insurance company to see if they have processed your claim.  Most insurance companies now offer on-line services to their members so that you can easily check the status of your claim. 

Did you bill my insurance?

If you provided our office with your active insurance card at the time of service, then you can rest assured that your claim was sent to your carrier that same day.  We submit the majority of our claims electronically, and if all of the information that we obtained from you is correct, then your claim should be received in just a few days.  Most insurance companies now offer on-line services to their members so that you can check the status of your claim.

Remember to contact us immediately if any of your information changes!  We will need to obtain all new insurance cards in order to accurately process your claim.

I'm due a refund, when will I get my check?

If you or your insurance company has overpaid, we will issue a refund to the appropriate party.  Our refund checks are generated on the last day of each month.

I paid my co-pay/$100 deposit. Why am I getting a bill?

Our office will send you a statement after we have adjudicated your claim according to your insurance companies EOB (Explanation of Benefits). They may notify us that you have some additional out of pocket costs, such as a deductible, co-insurance, or they may even deny your claim for services.  Your insurance company will send you a copy of the EOB as well, so be sure to obtain it.

If your particular insurance company does not contract with our physicians, then our office will send you a statement for all remaining unpaid fees.

Remember, your insurance coverage is a contract between you and your carrier.  If you have specific questions about how your claim was processed, please contact your carrier.