FAQ
Your inquiries and concerns are at the heart of our practice. If there’s a question we haven’t addressed, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re deeply committed to ensuring you have all the information you need for your health journey.
Direct pay is a return to the way medical care used to be: patients pay directly for services, eliminating the complexities and intermediary steps of traditional insurance billing. This model fosters a closer, more personalized patient-physician relationship.
By opting for direct pay, you gain increased access to Dr. Monize, ensuring a close doctor-patient relationship. Appointments are never rushed, with dedicated times set aside for each patient. This allows for a comprehensive discussion of your health, including complex conditions, ensuring all your concerns are thoroughly addressed.
Our practice operates outside of traditional insurance models. For those with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), we recommend checking with your account provider to understand potential uses. Additionally, if your insurance plan offers out-of-network benefits, you might be eligible for some reimbursement. In such cases, we can supply an itemized bill for you to submit to your insurance. Always consult your insurance provider for more specific information.
Yes, maintaining insurance is recommended, especially for covering potential surgeries, unexpected hospitalizations, and other significant medical events. Additionally, routine services like lab tests, imaging, and medications will still be processed through your insurance, ensuring comprehensive financial coverage.
At Monize Medical, our pricing is transparent and simple. We have a monthly fee system, which means you can bid farewell to unexpected bills. No co-pays to consider, either. Payments are seamlessly and securely handled via credit or debit card. For those looking for added flexibility, we currently have individual direct pay consultations available for a limited time.
We get it, change can be daunting. However, our flexible approach means no binding contracts. Membership can be terminated anytime with a 30-day notice, and we’re always available to clarify any concerns for your peace of mind.
Your health doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. Enjoy direct, 24/7 access to your physician through email, text, or cell phone. Skip the answering service; reach your trusted doctor anytime, even on weekends and holidays.If you need an appointment outside typical hours, simply email us to request.
At Monize Medical, we focus on building strong doctor-patient bonds. With fewer patients, every visit feels personal and attentive. Regardless of any insurance changes, you can always expect a consistent and caring approach from our team.
At Monize Medical, we don’t process traditional insurance claims. Our approach emphasizes transparent fees without the hassles of insurance. Even if your insurance shifts, your care with us remains uninterrupted.
Currently, Monize Medical does not accommodate government-funded insurance like Medicare/Medicaid. Yet, we anticipate this evolving soon. We invite members to join our waitlist to stay informed on updates.
Yes, our virtual consultation services bridge the gap, making premier care accessible to all Florida residents, regardless of their specific location within the state.
When you meet with Dr. Monize, anticipate a unique blend of expert medical insight and genuine personal attention. Your initial consultation is an opportunity for Dr. Monize to get to know you, your health concerns, and your treatment goals. Dedicated time is allocated to ensure a comprehensive discussion, in a relaxed environment. With an emphasis on both preventative care and patient education, every interaction is tailored to empower you on your health journey.
Several alternatives exist, including lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), behavioral therapy, other medications, and surgery. Consult a doctor to determine the best approach for your individual needs.
Remember: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new medication or making changes to your weight loss plan.
Long-term safety data is still emerging. Consult a healthcare professional for an individualized assessment of potential risks and benefits.
Yes, semaglutide is considered an adjunct therapy and should be used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise for optimal results and long-term weight management.
Some individuals may start to see weight loss within the first few weeks of treatment with semaglutide, but the full effects will take several months. Consistency with medication and adherence to lifestyle recommendations are important for optimal results.
The most common side effects are usually mild and temporary, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and headache. In very rare cases, more serious side effects such as pancreatitis or gallbladder problems may occur.
Semaglutide for weight loss is typically recommended for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol).
Clinical studies show an average weight loss of 15% within a year when combined with lifestyle changes, with many patients seeing greater than 20% weight reduction. Results are not guaranteed and individual outcomes may vary.
Semaglutide (brand name: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, mimicking a natural gut hormone. It works by:
- Increasing insulin production and decreasing glucagon production: Helps regulate blood sugar and reduces hunger pangs.
- Delaying gastric emptying: Slows down digestion, making you feel fuller for longer.
- Suppressing hunger: Signals the brain to feel satiated, reducing cravings.
Hormone pellets are typically made from bioidentical hormones, meaning they are chemically identical to the hormones naturally produced by your body. They are often derived from plant sources like yams or soybeans.
A healthcare professional inserts the pellets under the skin, usually in the buttocks or hip area, through a small incision. The procedure is quick and typically performed under local anesthesia.
The lifespan of hormone pellets varies depending on individual factors like metabolism and hormone needs. Generally, they last between 3 to 6 months.
- Pellet therapy offers several advantages, including:
- Consistent hormone delivery
- Improved bioavailability (how well your body absorbs the hormones)
- Convenience (lasting several months)
- Use of bioidentical hormones
Pellet therapy can alleviate a variety of symptoms in both men and women. In addition, symptoms associated with perimenopause/menopause respond particularly well. Some of the most commonly improved symptoms include:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Fatigue and low energy
- Mood swings and irritability
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Vaginal dryness and decreased libido (women)
- Erectile dysfunction (men)
While generally considered safe and used by millions of people for decades worldwide, pellet therapy, like any medical intervention, carries potential risks and side effects. Discussing your individual health history and concerns with your doctor is crucial.
Some possible (not all-inclusive) side effects include:
- Acne
- Hair growth
- Breast tenderness
- Mood swings
- Spotting (light bleeding)
- Swelling
These are often mild and temporary, and subside as your body adjusts to the hormones.
Pellet therapy is an excellent choice for many people, though it is not necessarily suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions, like active cancer or blood clotting disorders, may preclude its use. Consulting with your doctor is essential to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Many patients report feeling noticeable improvements within a few weeks, while others may take longer. Individual responses can vary, and it may take more than one attempt to match your dose to your unique needs.
Testosterone stimulates the muscle to grow and retain water, which may result in a small weight change of two to five pounds. This is only temporary and happens more frequently with the first insertion.
Ketamine is a medication that has been used for decades as an anesthetic in both human and veterinary medicine. It is now being explored for its potential to treat various mental health and pain conditions due to its unique effects on the brain.
Ketamine infusion therapy involves administering a carefully controlled dose of ketamine intravenously. The infusion typically lasts for about 45 minutes to an hour. Ketamine is thought to work by targeting and modulating certain neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to increased neuroplasticity and improved communication between brain cells.
Ketamine is generally considered safe when administered by a qualified medical professional in a controlled environment. However, like any medication, it can have potential side effects and risks. It’s important to discuss your individual medical history and any concerns with your doctor before starting treatment.
Some patients may experience temporary side effects during or shortly after the infusion, such as nausea, dizziness, dissociation, or changes in blood pressure. These side effects are typically mild and resolve quickly.
The positive effects of ketamine can last for weeks or even months after a single infusion. However, the duration of effects can vary between individuals. Some patients may require additional infusions to maintain the benefits.
Ketamine infusion therapy may be a good option for individuals who have not responded to other treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain. It’s important to note that ketamine is not a first-line treatment and is typically considered when other options have failed to provide adequate relief.
You will be closely monitored by a medical professional throughout the infusion process. You may experience some mild side effects, but these will be managed by the medical team. The environment is typically designed to be comfortable and relaxing to facilitate a positive experience.
Research suggests that most patients experience the best outcomes after an initial series of six infusions spaced out over a few weeks. After this initial series, some individuals may require additional “booster” infusions every few weeks or months to maintain their improvement. Your doctor will work with you to personalize a treatment plan that’s best for your needs.
Yes, ketamine infusion therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as psychotherapy and medication. This can provide a comprehensive approach to managing mental health conditions and optimize treatment outcomes.
While ketamine is generally considered safe when used appropriately, there is still ongoing research regarding its long-term effects. It’s important to discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor before starting treatment.
After completing ketamine infusion therapy, it’s important to continue follow-up care with your healthcare provider. They will monitor your progress and help you develop strategies to maintain the positive effects of treatment.
Research is ongoing regarding the potential of ketamine infusion therapy for treating other conditions, such as addiction, eating disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness and safety for these applications.
