Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the practice dropping United Health Insurance?
We value providing the highest quality of care while keeping operations efficient and patient-focused. Unfortunately, the administrative burden and reimbursement challenges associated with United Health Insurance have made it unsustainable for us to continue to be contracted with them. By switching to a direct-pay model, we aim to streamline processes and provide more transparent and affordable pricing.
What does direct-pay mean?
Under a direct-pay model, patients pay for services out of pocket at the time of their visit. We’ve established clear, upfront pricing for all services to ensure transparency. We will not bill your insurance (unless we are still contracted with your carrier), you will not owe a copay and you will not be billed for any remaining balance.
How will I know how much services cost?
We’ve published a list of our direct-pay prices on our website and have copies in the office. This allows you to review and plan for the cost of services ahead of time. Our staff will do their best to answer any questions about what your visit might approximately cost, but they cannot guarantee pricing as it is up to the provider to determine the level of care you receive once they have evaluated you.
Can I still come to this practice if I have United Health Care insurance or any other insurance that you are not contracted with?
Absolutely! You are welcome to continue receiving care at our practice with the same level of quality and personalization. However, you will need to pay out of pocket for your visit on the day of service. We can generate a superbill after your visit that you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement as an out-of-network provider or have the amount credited towards your out-of-network deductible (this will depend on your plan).
How do I know if my insurance will work for Denver Tech Dermatology?
You should call your insurance provider and ask them to determine if you are in-network with us by giving them our Tax ID number: 82-3006606.
How do I find out what dermatology providers are in-network for my plan?
You will need to call your insurance customer service line or check their website for a list of providers that are in-network for you to select from. We do not have access to this information.
How can I get a copy of my medical records?
You have access to your medical records via our patient portal. You can either print or download a PDF of your records on this site. If you haven’t set up your portal access with us, please call us, and we will send you a link via email that will allow you to set this up. This link is only good for 24 hours and has to be opened in one of two browsers: Google Chrome or Firefox. The email you will receive looks like this:
Welcome to Your Denver Tech Dermatology Associates, PC Patient Portal
From: Patient Portal <[email protected]
Can I pay for my out-of-network medical visits with my HSA account or FLEX spending account?
You can use your HSA (healthcare savings account) and/or FLEX spending account to pay for your medical visits regardless of your insurance coverage. Self-pay services are typically eligible for reimbursement through HSA or FSA accounts. Be sure to save your receipts and check with your account provider for details. These accounts are not meant to coverer cosmetic services
Do I still have a co-pay that I’ll need to pay before being seen if I have UHC insurance?
No. You will only be responsible for the office visit with the provider.
Will I still be billed for a remaining amount after my visit?
No, our direct-pay fees are on our website and are what you will be responsible for on the day of your visit.
Will I have to pay out-of-pocket for medications, labs, possible imaging or pathology?
No, your medications and/or pathology fees will still go through your medical insurance.
Can I still use my insurance for anything?
While we are no longer in-network with United Health Insurance, you may still use your insurance for services outside of our practice, such as lab tests, imaging, prescriptions and Mohs surgery.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, checks, and cash. Payment is due at the time of your visit.
Do you offer any payment plans?
We can discuss payment plans for larger services or procedures. Please speak with our billing team for more details.
Are lab tests, pathology and imaging included in the direct-pay cost?
Lab tests, pathology and imaging are billed separately by the outside provider performing those services.
Do you have a patient portal?
Yes, we have a patient portal and encourage you to sign up for it. You can access your medical records via the portal. You can also use the portal to message us if you have a non-urgent question. If you haven’t set up your portal access with us, please call us and we will send you a link via email that allows you to set this up. This link is only good for 24 hours and has to be opened in one of two browsers: Google Chrome or Firefox. The email you will receive looks like this:
Welcome to Your Denver Tech Dermatology Associates, PC Patient Portal
From: Patient Portal <[email protected]
Where can I find helpful information about Medicare Plans?
Who can help me choose a Medicare Plan that is right for me?
Caroline McKinnon is an independent Medicare Plan expert, and has been working with our practice to provide patients with information regarding Medicare Plan Options.
McKinnon Medicare Solutions
Phone: 720-480-2347
Email: [email protected]
What insurance plans are NOT in-network with Denver Tech Dermatology?
Aetna – commercial
Aetna Medicare Advantage or supplemental plans
United Health Care commercial
United Health Care Medicare Advantage or supplemental plans
Medicaid
WellCare
Kaiser Permanente
Bright Health
Colorado Choice
Denver Health Medical Plan
Colorado Medicare Advantage
Cigna commercial – we are still accepting Cigna Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
Our team is here to help! Please feel free to contact us at 303-222-9559 or speak with a staff member during your visit.
How can I contact my legislators and let them know I lost my provider because UHC or Aetna forced them to drop all Medicare Advantage Plans administered by them? How do I let them know that I have lost a provider because they had to opt-out of Medicare plans entirely given that reimbursement rates haven’t kept up with inflation over the past decade, which make small medical practices unable to cover their expenses and keep their door open?
Never underestimate what your individual power is thru grassroot efforts. One by one, we can begin to inform our legislators what our challenges have been in regards to finding and keeping good medical providers. As a collective, our voices will pressure them to enact meaningful changes to Medicare. It is very important to let your representatives in congress know the difficulties you are encountering with access to physicians of your choice. We encourage you to reach out to them via email on their websites, or better yet, make an appointment to see them in person to discuss your concerns. Tell your friends and family members to do so as well. Send messages to your US Senators, US Representative and CO State Senator and State Representatives:
