DISCOVER
Frequently Asked Questions
Why not accept Insurance?
Accepting insurance companies requires large overhead in order for doctors to get paid which creates a system where physicians must see a high quantity of patients. Often, this leads to reduced quality of care as well as delayed care because patients have to wait weeks or months to be seen. Patients usually notice the strain of this system with long doctor's office wait times, and the actual face to face time spent with their doctor is on average only 4 to 7 minutes leaving some feeling brushed off and frustrated. Patients are often hit with unexpected bills and paying more for medical services. Eliminating insurance means doctors can focus on providing quality care and connection with a smaller amount of patients and the patients feel the difference without stress and financial burden. For many patients, because the doctor is not restrained by insurance panels and contracts, the doctor is free to provide the best treatment options to patients without being tethered by the restraints of the health insurance companies. Stepping Stone Functional Podiatry of Cleveland is a practice that uses a direct care model and we are considered out of network.
Why pay out of pocket when I already have insurance?
We respect your time and your desire for quality podiatric care. Patients we see in our practice enjoy little to no waits to see the doctor. Appointments are placed so that you will have plenty of time to explain your foot problems and the doctor will listen. The doctor has plenty of time to explain your foot condition and the treatment options in a way you will understand. We also understand some patients for various reasons may need the doctor to come to them and the doctor is happy to host appointments at your home if needed. Usually the cost with direct care tends to be less, especially for patients with high deductible and those with out-of-pocket plans. See a direct care physician today and save thousands of dollars! Dr. Mazzola is considered a non-participating provider.
As a patient of Stepping Stone Functional Podiatry of Cleveland, do I still need health insurance?
Yes. We do not replace your existing health insurance. There is certain care that we do not provide including hospital stays, emergency care, surgery, and advanced imaging that is beneficial to use health insurance for. Referrals to other specialists may be necessary.
What’s included with my appointment?
All appointments Include:
Physical Exam
Discussion of Diagnosis and Treatment
As Needed Services:
Nail Care
Callus Care
Wound Care
Education Material
Additional Costs:
Procedures
Injections
X-Rays
Advanced Imaging
Wound Care Supplies
Boots
Braces
Surgical Shoes
Orthotics
Other Medical Equipment
We work with a network of services that provide a discounted rate for cash paying patients and patients can often use insurance for these items and services if applicable.
Why do you collect credit card information upon booking?
Credit card information is collected at the time of booking to cover the cost of a no show fee when a patient does not call to cancel an appointment within 24 hours notice. This is to cover the time the doctor lost where she could have been helping another patient. The patient's card will be charged $100 when they do not show up to a house call appointment. The patient's card will be charged $50 if they do not show up to an in office appointment.
Can I pay using an HSA or FSA card?
Yes we accept HSA and FSA cards. We also take cash, checks and credit/debit cards.
Are there other direct care doctors?
Direct Care is growing nationwide because patients are learning that their medical care can be much better! The following links below can be used to find other direct care doctors in the United States.
T
T