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Frequently Asked Questions
 
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FAQs
Providing helpful information to first-time visitors and current patients of our practice.
What types of health insurance plans do you accept?
For your convenience, we file most types of insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. For a complete list of insurance companies and accepted plans, visit our Billing and Insurance page.  

What do I need to bring with me to my appointment?
Insurance card, payment and a list of current prescriptions, as well as over-the-counter medications, any films and reports of X-rays, MRIs or CT scans that you had recently, if necessary.

What are some examples of emergency medical situations?
An emergency generally involves an illness that is currently or potentially life threatening. Although this is not a complete list, here are examples of true emergency situations: chest pain, stroke symptoms, trouble breathing, sudden, severe pain, such as a headache or stomachache, head or back injuries, bleeding or vomiting that won't stop, loss of consciousness, poisoning, major burns and cuts, choking, an obviously crooked extremity after a fall or accident. Individuals experiencing any of these conditions should go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

What are advance directives?
Novant Medical Group practices support a patient's rights to make decisions about their medical care and treatment, especially in situations where they cannot make their wishes known. We have information available about advance directives, living wills and durable power of attorney. Ask our receptionist for copies of these important documents.


What types of health problems do you treat?
We are proud to be a specialty provider of podiatry services for you and your entire family. Frequently treated problems include: bunions, claw toes, diabetic foot problems, calluses, flat feet, ankle or heel pain, nail care and warts. 

What types of foot care services do you offer?
Services to correct foot and ankle pain or disorders include conservative treatments, such as custom-made orthoses, medication, injections and ultrasound therapy. If non-surgical care does not help, surgery may be used as a treatment method. 

What causes a bunion?
Bunions are often caused by incorrect foot mechanics, forcing the toe joint to move beyond normal range. The deformity can develop from an abnormality in foot function, or arthritis, but is more commonly caused by wearing improper fitting footwear. Tight, narrow shoes with a constrictive toe box (toe area) can cause the foot to begin to take the shape of the shoe, leading to the formation of a bunion. If you're at risk for developing a bunion, wearing high-heeled or poorly fitting shoes makes the problem worse. As the deformity progresses, the big toe shifts inward and, in severe cases, will actually overlap or under lap the second toe 

In order to see a specialist, do I need a referral from my primary care physician?
To determine whether you need a referral from us before seeing a medical specialist, view the terms of your insurance plan. Often, this information is listed on the insurance card or can be obtained by calling the insurance company. Our medical providers can refer you to a specialist if your health situation requires it or if your health insurance company requires a referral prior to visiting a specialist. 

What phone number can I call if I have a billing question?
Billing questions can be directed to our billing representatives at 336-718-4820, weekdays from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

How do I have my medical records sent to another practice?
To release records to a specialist or another practice, we need your written permission. We have forms in the office available for that purpose. The process of transferring records requires approximately two weeks for completion.