Question 1

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please call (979) 484-2661 for an appointment.

Question 2

Are you accepting new patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Dr. Van Houten is accepting new patients.

Question 3

With which hospital(s) are you affiliated?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Van Houten is credentialed with Houston Methodist West Hospital, and can admit a patient directly to the hospital if needed. Dr. Van Houten has an agreement with Post Acute Medical Hospital (PAM) system to manage patients in a sub-acute setting.

Question 4

Are you Urgent Care?

Accepted Answer

No. Dr. Van Houten is a Family Medicine Physician and is registered as a Primary Care Physician with the various insurance companies with which he is contracted.

Question 5

Can you help me understand my EOB?

Accepted Answer

We are happy to help you understand your Explanation of Benefits that you receive from your insurance company.

Question 6

Why do I get a bill after paying my copay?

Accepted Answer

After your appointment, VHMC staff file the claim with your insurance company. Once your insurance reviews your benefits, they will send an EOB to the patient and a remittance reply to VHMC. These forms indicate who is responsible for paying which portions of the claim. VHMC then bills the patient for the amount indicated as the patient’s responsibility. You are always welcome to call the office with any questions regarding your bill.

Question 7

How is Medicare In-Network and Non-Participating?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Van Houten is contracted with Medicare, thus in-network. The contract is set with Dr. Van Houten being Non-Participating which means that the patient pays for services up front, and Medicare reimburses the patient. VHMC charges only the amount that Medicare has listed in their current Fee Schedule; a new Fee Schedule is published each January. VHMC staff files all Medicare claims on behalf of the patient. Reimbursement checks are typically received by the patient within a month from the date of service. Please feel free to call the office with any questions.

PATIENT FORMS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS