Billing/Policies

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Q: What insurance companies are you working with?

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A: We are currently working with Blue Cross Blue shield (Anthem/Empire), Optum (which includes UnitedHealthcare, UMR), Aetna and Cigna. Individual policies have different coverages, so we will verify your coverage prior to your initial appointment. We are hoping to start working with Empire beginning in 2024. 

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Q: If I pay out of pocket, can I still get reimbursed for my visits?

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A: Yes, in many cases. This is depending on your insurance policy, as many offer "out of network" reimbursement benefits which vary by policy. We have partnered with Osmind platform which makes the process of submitting a "superbill", or a claim to your insurance company a matter of 1-2 minutes. Reimbursement times would vary based on the time it takes your insurance company to process each individual claim. 

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Q: Will I ever need to be seen in person in your New Paltz office instead of virtually?

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A: As much as we enjoy seeing patients in person, we understand that in our the environment, for some people it is more convenient to be seen virtually from their homes, offices and other convenient locations. However, in certain situations a visit in the office is necessary. For example, it is required by Federal Law to be seen face to face prior to initiating a controlled substance such as benzodiazepines (i.e. Xanax, Ativan,Valium, Klonopin), stimulants (i.e. Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, Concerta), and certain hormones such as testosterone. 

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How We Practice

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Q: Other than prescribing medications, what other services are you offering?

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A: As noted in the introduction, each of the providers has different backgrounds and areas of expertise. In general, both providers engage in therapy, nutritional and lifestyle counseling and supplement recommendations if appropriate. Leinani has additional training and interest in perinatal and postpartum care, and for that population she is able to provide specific therapy modalities and medication management. Omer's background in general and integrative medicine allows him to utilize modalities such as hormone therapy and digestive care when appropriate, and look into potential underlying biological processes as they effect mental health. 

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Q: How is talking about the digestive system relevant in the context of psychiatry?

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A: There is a growing body of evidence that points toward the connection between the gut and the brain. Most people are aware that their digestion is dependent on their mental state and vice versa. We now know some of the mechanisms in which this connection is formed and manifests. Issues such as imbalance in our gut microbiome (the bacteria and other organisms lining the digestive tract) and intestinal permeability can lead to over-activation of our immune system, which in turn can influence most systems in our bodies including our brains. 

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Q: What can nurse practitioners do compared to psychiatrists?

A. According to New York State Education Law §6902, a nurse practitioner diagnoses illnesses and physical conditions and performs therapeutic and corrective measures within a specialty area of practice in which the nurse practitioner is certified by State Education Department. In psychiatry, nurse practitioners can diagnose mental illnesses, provide therapy and prescribe medications as appropriate. 

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Q: Who can be seen as a patient in your practice?

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A. We see adult patients 18 and over. We embrace diversity and strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals regardless of their background, identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religious affiliation or abilities. 

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