For Doctors Referring Patients
With over 30 years of surgical experience here in Arizona, I ’ve made a pivotal decision to shift away from insurance contracts that deeply undervalue our professional services. While I will continue to participate in Medicare, I will no longer be accepting AHCCCS plans, nor will I be contracted with commercial insurance networks. This change reflects my commitment to spending more meaningful time with each patient — unhurried, unrushed, and fully focused on their care.
Referral Options and Coverage Information:
Appointments on Short Notice: Patients with Medicare Part B or private insurance that includes out-of-network benefits will be able to schedule appointments with minimal delay.
Referrals Without Out-of-Network Benefits: I am also open to seeing patients referred from in-network providers, even when their insurance lacks out-of-network benefits. In these cases, an appeal letter from the referring PCP is required, which I will submit to the insurance provider to request a one-time authorization for care. I have enclosed a sample letter for your convenience, and will also provide a finalized version after evaluating the patient.
No Compromise in Urgency or Health: Most of the endocrine and general surgical cases I manage allow ample time for this appeal process, without negatively affecting patient health outcomes.