Author: Katy Farr

New Private Pay Policy
Posted on by Katy Farr

To Our Patients: 

We have implemented a policy requiring a credit card on file for all Self-Pay (Private Pay) patients. Effective July 15, 2020, we now kindly require a credit card to be on file with our office so that your payment can be automatically drafted the day of or after your appointment. If you decline to place a credit card on file, you may pre-pay your visit in full prior to the appointment date. Please call our billing office to receive your estimate for services at (512)458-8400, option 6.

When do I give you my credit card?
We prefer that you enter your credit card information while confirming/pre-registering for your appointment through our secure platform, Phreesia. Please pay close attention to your appointment reminders sent via text & email to complete pre-registration.You can also deliver your credit card information over the phone, by mail, or in person, but the most secure way is online during pre-registration. 

But wait, I’m nervous about leaving you my credit card information. 
Phreesia’s secure PCI-DSS compliant system never stores sensitive credit card information in our office system or Phreesia’s, it is stored with the merchant. 

What is PCI-DSS compliant?
Payment Card Industry (PCI) Security Standards Council offers robust and comprehensive standards to enhance payment card data security and reduce exposure to credit card fraud. PCI Data Security Standard (DSS) provides an actionable framework for developing a robust payment card data security process, including prevention, detection, and appropriate reaction to security incidents. 

How will I know how much you are going to charge me?
Upon storing your credit card information in Phreesia, you will sign the card-on-file policy, including the maximum amount we can charge to your card. You will never be charged more than the agreed-upon maximum amount. On the day of or after your appointment, your card will be automatically drafted for the amount due and a receipt will be emailed to you. 

What if I have more questions?
Our staff is happy to speak with you about your account at any time. Please call our billing department at (512)458-8400, option 6. 

Sincerely,
Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology, P.A. 

Update on Diabetes and Covid-19 Studies show the impact of diabetes control on Covid 19 outcomes
Posted on by Katy Farr

Two studies, one from China and one from England, offer similar messages to people with diabetes.

The first study, from Hubei Province, China, evaluated nearly 1000 patients with Covid 19 and pre-existing diabetes (published in Cell Metabolism). The patients who were better controlled upon entry to the hospital (average A1c 7.3%) had a significantly higher survival rate than those who had an average A1c of 8.1%.

The second study, from England, noted that one in four people who have died of Covid 19 also had diabetes. Weight and higher A1c correlated to a higher death rate.

Overall, the data shows that people who go to the hospital for Coronavirus and also have poorly managed diabetes, have a higher risk of dying.

What does this mean for people with diabetes?

First, there is no evidence that people with diabetes have a higher risk of contracting Coronavirus, and most people with the infection will not need hospital care at all.

Secondly, the best approach to reducing the risk of complications due to Coronavirus is to manage diabetes carefully and keep blood sugars controlled.

Prevention of Coronavirus by wearing masks and social distancing is the best approach for everyone.

If you have diabetes, be sure to monitor your blood sugars and keep all medical appointments. If your blood sugars are not well controlled, please seek medical care. Our endocrinologists and mid-level practitioners are here to help.

This update is brought to you by the doctors and mid levels at Texas Diabetes and Endocrinology, where helping you be successful in managing your diabetes is our priority.

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