Services
We are committed to improving patient care, removing unnecessary barriers to medical care, and promoting quality of life, health and wellness.
Patient Advocate
We offer a concierge and access service to assist clients with guidance and access to quality U.S. health providers, services and treatments not currently available where they live. We service both insured and non-insured clients.
We have the local knowledge and expertise in hand-holding clients depending on their case’s needs, to quality access healthcare providers.
We pride ourselves in guiding patients in their time of need. Every case is unique including its clinical, travel, administrative to financial needs required by each member. We assess each case and guide based on specific needs. We navigate patient from the moment we are contacted until patient is evaluated, treated and returns home. We ensure client’s local medical team is also aware of case for follow through upon returning home. We are there every step of the way.
We provide you with a team of Patient Advocates and Navigators to assist you with:
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Options to quality healthcare providers for each case, whether prevention and/or treatment(s) to insured and non-insured.
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We access most cost-effective and discounts to services for our clients.
We advocate for non-insured members to not overpay.
We guide insured clients based on their policies to pay least co-pays/deductibles. -
Expedite scheduling of appointments for patients-virtual, telephone and in-person.
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Coordination of medical records to provider(s).
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Communication with home medical team. We work as a team with referring physician(s), nurse/assistant(s), patient caretaker, patient insurance, if any, and team of physicians in U.S.
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We are member’s liaison in accessing health insurance coverage details.
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Coordination of ancillary services for members such as diagnostics, air ambulance services and support services.
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Provide member with logistics information including discounted lodging, transportation, etc.
Please note that some of our providers provide complimentary transportation, a driver, for our clients. -
Assist clients with prevention service(s) including comprehensive physical exams, mental health and wellness support services with quality wellness providers.
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In certain cases, a patient navigator to accompany client to appointments.
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For most cancer cases, client has access to complimentary/free/no charge virtual second opinions.
Our network of oncology providers in Miami/South Florida will review each client’s case and provide their opinion for treatment(s). -
Discounted Executive / Medical Physicals in Miami/South Florida.
Our network providers’ services include MRIs, mammograms, ultrasounds, biopsy, CTs, Bone Scans, Pet Scans, Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy, Urology Services and Procedures, including Trauma Surgery, General Surgery, and reconstructive and plastic surgery and support services and many other medical services. Lastly, we have providers using the latest techniques and treatments for Interventional Radiology. We also collaborate with hospitals and academic institutions for a variety of diagnosis.
Our wellness providers include comprehensive physical exams, mental health support and wellness services (please click on respective tabs for info).
Clients pay for actual service/treatment needed directly to the providers.
Next Steps
Please follow these steps to proceed and we will provide you with a complimentary evaluation on how we can assist with your case:
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Summarize in your own words your need(s) for service(s) with proposed dates of travel and your ideal date/time for appointments. For example, I need an MRI. I need a Pet Scan. I need a consultation with medical oncologist or ______(specialist).
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Summarize your diagnosis (if any) in your own words with dates, treatment/services received so far and recommendations for treatment you have received. For example, I was diagnosed with _______ on ______(date) and my specialist recommends ________. I have already received the following treatments: __________. I need a second opinion.
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Download H.O.P.E. Registration & Consent Form and please fill out and sign. If you do not send this, we cannot act on your behalf.
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Attach medical records. Please attach all medical records or if you do not have any, please contact us so we can guide you as to what we will need.
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Your Contact Info to include: Full Name, Date of Birth, Home Country Address and Contact Phone Number (ideally mobile/cell ph #).
Email all above to: info@HOPEpatientconcierge.com
Executive, Comprehensive Physicals
We assist patients with access to services through our network of providers such as Executive Physicals. A comprehensive physical examination is a great service for everyone, not only Executives.
An executive physical is more than just a series of tests. You'll also likely discuss fitness and exercise plans with an exercise physiologist and get detailed diet advice from a nutritionist. Your appointment with a physician may cover such topics as sleep quality and stress management.
Most patients get a wide variety of tests done in a single day. Depending on your medical history, along with the usual height, weight and blood pressure readings, these can include a body composition analysis, electrocardiogram, cardiac stress test, lung capacity analysis, fitness evaluation, eye exam, hearing test and nutrition assessment in addition to lab tests for cholesterol and other health markers. Gender-specific exams such as pap smears and tests for prostate cancer markers are also available.
Typically these physicals include full panel laboratory tests, chest x-rays, pulmonary function testing (if needed), audiograms (if needed), full body CAT scanning, EKGs, heart stress tests, vascular age tests, urinalysis, and mammograms or prostate exams depending on gender.
We provide:
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expedited appointments
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coordination of any clinical/health records
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communicate with home preventive team, if needed
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look into health insurance
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provide access to most cost effective (if you don’t have insurance) services
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assistance with travel logistics, lodging, transportation
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and if needed, someone to accompany patient to appointments.
Our wellness providers include comprehensive physical exams, mental health support and wellness services (click on Mental Health Support or Health & Wellness Tab). Our first choice of provider is outpatient, independent Internist Practices due to their expeditious process, no long lengthy paperwork and very cost effective. However, if you have another preference, we can accommodate as well.
Clients pay for actual service needed directly to the providers.
Next Steps
Please follow these steps to proceed: Physicals – Healthy Services:
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Specify service you need with proposed dates of travel and your ideal date for appointments.
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Download the H.O.P.E. Registration & Consent Form and please fill out and sign. If you do not send this, we cannot act on your behalf.
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If you will use Insurance, please send a copy of your Insurance card (Front and back).
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Attach any relevant medical records, possibly the previous year’s physical reports.
Once we receive this, we will organize and send you a physical questionnaire to fill out and get you started.
Email all above to: liz@HOPEpatientconcierge.com
Note: They can run some services through Insurance, but please note that there may be certain fees not accepted by your insurance and you would be responsible for. In addition, patients will be responsible for copays and deductibles as well as total payments for any services that are denied by the insurance company. Finally, the duration of the study is targeted within 2 days, but varies from patient to patient dependent upon needed testing.
PAP Program
Have you been diagnosed with cancer and cannot pay for treatment,
your copay or co-insurance?
Have you received a bill from your provider's office that you cannot afford?
Is your chemotherapy and/or medication not totally covered by insurance?
Do you need financial aid to cover your medical expenses?
Do you need assistance with paying your insurance premiums?
Are you in need of transportation? Or other support services?
Patients express how important therapy/treatment is when sick, but stress about how good is the treatment if they cannot afford it.
Many patients have attested to being compliant with their treatment regimens when they receive assistance to cover their treatment.
Over the years, we have explored many avenues of Financial Aid, Patient Assistance Programs, and Grants and continue to do so daily in search of new or re-opened funding and patient assistance programs, which benefit so many patients who cannot afford to pay.
Contact us today for a quick, complimentary evaluation of your case over the phone or e-mail:
Tiffany Santiago, CHES, Patient Navigator
Cell Phone/Whatsapp: 561-305-0426
Fax: 786-257-5676
E-Mail: tiffany@HOPEpatientconcierge.com.
Mental Support Services
Psychological, Counseling Support for Patients
Many of our patients who receive a cancer diagnosis can be as devastating to the psyche as the cancer itself is to the body. Awareness and advocacy have played and continue to play essential roles in prevention, early detection, and treatment advances.
What seems to be missing from the conversation, however, is the psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis and its implications in care and prognosis. This is clearly evidenced not only in the hollow literature on the subject, but also by the sparsity of resources available. Most baffling is the lack of attention paid by the medical specialists whose very job it is to help.
According to The National Cancer Institute, up to 25% of cancer survivors experience symptoms of depression and up to 45 % experience anxiety. Many also experience symptoms meeting the criteria of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Most concerning is that survivors are twice as likely to commit suicide than the general population.
It varies for many patients, however for many cancer patients, negative psychological effects don't even begin until after treatment ends. This is often when distress sets in and one of the most crucial junctures during which attention must be paid to the emotional well-being of the patient. As important as it is to have support throughout treatment, perhaps more important is an ongoing sustainable support system that the patient can count on throughout recovery. Then you have other patients who experience it as soon as they're diagnosed.
“Cancer survivors who are depressed are twice as likely to die prematurely as those who are not depressed” -Journal of Cancer Survivorship
Whatever the illness or diagnosis may be for a patient, being affected by a mental health condition can sometimes make patients feel isolated and overwhelmed. Since dealing with the news the patient may have received, can already be tough, it’s important to find a support system that patient can rely on. Being able to talk to a trusted friend, family member, support group or mental health professional an provide relief and assistance in times of need.
Mental Support for Caretakers, Family, The Healthy
We call mental support for The Healthy, becoming mindful - the practice of mindfulness.
Mindfulness simply means "self- awareness." It is the process of focusing the mind, body and soul on what is being sensed in the moment, and it provides the client with the insight to observe and understand positive, negative and in-between feelings from a distance.
Mindfulness practices can help relieve stress, improve sleep, and reduce chronic pain, blood pressure and symptoms of heart disease. It also has the power to change the way your brain functions. Studies have found that activities such as meditation and yoga increase the number of signaling connections in the brain and provide better control over processing pain and emotions.
Mental health is part of overall health. Just like we can’t be well without good mental health, we can’t be healthy if we neglect the rest of our body. When dealing with a mental health condition it can be easy to fall into a rut, relying solely on medication or therapy to be your cure and forgetting to take good care of your body. However, paying attention to lifestyle choices is important for recovery as well, thus we have an array of providers offering preventive and well-being services from comprehensive physicals to yoga to cryotherapy, massage, facials, etc. Click on: Healthy Concierge Services.
We have hand-picked our providers for this service and they provide consultations and sessions via the phone, Skype and FaceTime. However should you have a preference for an in-person session or a special request, please let us know and we will accommodate.
Clients pay for actual service needed directly to the providers.
Next Steps
Please follow these steps to proceed: Mental Health Support Services:
Summarize in your own words your need(s) for service(s) with proposed dates of travel and your ideal date/time for appointments. Specify service you need with ideal date(s) for counseling service and specify whether you prefer FaceTime, Skype or regular phone call or in person session(s). For example, I need a counseling session with ________ for adult/child _________. I need a virtual (or in-person) consultation with ______(specialist).
Summarize your diagnosis (if any) in your own words with dates, treatment/counseling received so far and recommendations you have received. For example, I was diagnosed with _______ on ______(date) and my counselor recommends ________.
Download the Consent Form (link to consent form here) and please fill out and sign. If you do not send this, we cannot act on your behalf.
Attach medical records, if applicable.
Your Contact Info to include: Full Name, Date of Birth, Home Country Address and Contact Phone Number (ideally mobile/cell ph #).
Email all above to: info@HOPEpatientconcierge.com
Our Preferred Mental Health Support Providers:
Based in New York:
Dr. Genevieve Harris
Covering Westchester, Bronx, Brooklyn and New York, NY
Phone #: 1 (914) 523-2947
Email: drgyarrell@gmail.com
Flexible schedules. All virtual options for counseling and option to travel to you as well. Pricing varies on each case. Practice accepts cash and credit card only.
Jinaki Howard
Covering Brooklyn, Bronx and New York, NY
Phone #: 1 (917) 407-0585
Email: jinakihoward@gmail.com
CV: see bio/CV link here
Flexible schedules. All virtual options for counseling and option to travel to you as well. Pricing varies on each case. Practice accepts cash and credit card only.
Based in S. Florida - Davie and Ft. Lauderdale:
Sheridan House, Family Ministries (Christian Faith-Based Counseling)
1700 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33325
(954) 583-1552 info@sheridanhouse.org
Monday-Thursday 9am-6pm; 50 mins session $120USD. By appointment only.
Only in-person option. Cost: $120 per session
Practice accepts cash and credit card only.
Please fill out the Adult In-Take Form or the Child In-Take Form in order to make an appointment for you.
Website: http://www.sheridanhouse.org/web/ministries/counseling-centers/
Health & Wellness Services
The Healthy, Preventive Care
Holistic definition of health and well-being is looking at an individual’s health and lifestyle considering all four factors, physical, intellectual, emotional and social. It focuses on the whole body and mind, not just a part of the body and the symptoms of the problem. It will look at the lifestyle of the individual such as nutritional deficiencies, causes of stress and why there is a lack of good health and wellness. We believe the start to evaluating our well-being begins with a Comprehensive Physical and wellness services.
Health & Wellness Services include: cryotherapy, massage, yoga, physical therapy, gym and fitness, chromo(color) therapy, sauna therapy, chiropractic services, acupuncture, cupping therapy, facial/skincare.....and more services!
In South Florida, we work very closely with Vital Health Wellness Center. We like their team for treating each client with the attention they deserve and they tailor service(s) to the needs of the clients. Whether it's acupuncture, a yoga class, fitness or chiropractic service, they are there to cater to your specific need(s).
This is a performance and recovery-based facility focused on the well-being of both mind and body. They improve the overall quality of your life through a variety of evidence-based therapies, fitness training, nutritional counseling, and skincare. Their team of experienced professionals are your partners along the journey to bring lasting change and personal vitality. They help empower you as an individual to reach your goals.
They’re on a mission to change the way we treat the conditions of the body through a balanced approach to health and wellness.
Address: 12064 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, Florida 33025
Phone #: +1 (954) 736-6965
Email: info@vitalhealthwellnesscenter.com
Depending on the service you need and location of preference, we
will connect you to the most appropriate wellness facility.
Please contact us for suggestions and we can schedule for you as well
any of the services.
In New York, we have a few providers depending in which borough. Please contact us with your geographic preference and we can help you with suggestions.

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Q: I just received a serious diagnosis/illness. What do I do? What are my options? How much is this going to cost?A: These are typical questions. We are here to help you. You can contact us at our phone # listed, however the most efficient way for us to help you is by asking your doctor for a copy of your diagnosis and all the medical records associated with your case. You can e-mail or fax this info to us with a summary of how you were diagnosed, dates and any treatments you may have been on (in your own words is fine, it gives us a background of your case). We will then have it reviewed by specialists through our network of providers. It only takes 1-2 days to get an opinion. Once they review, we will have treatment recommendation and option(s) together with costs. We work rather quickly so the quicker you get us your medical records, the quicker we can assist you. Please note that without medical records, we will still speak to you but cannot guide you much onto next steps. When you call us, we will advise this first, to get a copy of your medical records.
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Q: How quickly can I expect to have an appointment for a service?A: We work quickly with every appointment, however it really depends on the complexity of your case and the service needed. We are known to confirm appointment(s) as soon as same day, however this would be for a diagnostics test or a consultation, however if your case is a rare case or very complex case, then it may take more time but usually we would work for the same week. The key to expediting your appointment(s) is that you send us a copy of your medical records. Why? because this avoids a waste of time by us expediting your appointment and when you get here, if you don't have records, your appointment will not be as effective, meaning if a test is missing or a report is missing, you may need to get it done again which means more $ and delays in getting a proper recommendation by specialist.
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Q: Why do I have to fill out the registration and sign the consent form?A: Here in the U.S., we have to abide by HIPAAA law which is to protect patients and their confidential information. Without this form, we cannot assist you.
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Q: I am a caretaker, family and my mom/dad has been diagnosed. We want to come to U.S. for treatment but do not know where to start or even if we need to leave our country for treatment of this diagnosis?"A: Whether you are the patient or you are caring for family and parents who is faced with a serious diagnosis or condition, navigating the complex U.S. healthcare environment can be challenging. We take on the burden of these challenges to deliver the resources and access you need when you need them. However, even before providing you with options here in the U.S., we would assess which specialist(s) and/or treatment(s) is available in your country. We always provide you with options at home first and then also options here in the U.S. Based on our experience and knowledge of what's available in your country, we can guide you. If you do not have a particular service/treatment optimally available, then we provide you with our services here which are: Serve as your personal health advocate Access to have your case reviewed by specialists to guide you. Specialist Second Opinion: we have standing relationships with specialists, which enables us to connect individuals with quality treatment options for a specific medical need. Organize and expedite your appointment(s). Access to great discounts to cost for service(s) and treatment(s). Medical Record Management: As appropriate and with patient consent, we will gather, organize, and transfer relevant medical records in advance of an expedited appointment. Access to all your medical records. We communicate with your medical team(s), home country and abroad, have them kept abreast of your case. We assist patients with understanding their medical options, their bills and their care. We liaise with your insurance company, when permitted, to access authorization(s), coverage details. We attend appointments and follow-up with patient, a patient navigator, when needed. Provide assistance with travel coordination from hotel discounts, transportation, etc. Provide solutions to healthcare challenges. Provide health and wellness service options.
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Q: I feel very confused. I have seen 3 specialists and they all recommend a different treatment. What should I do?A: This is a very common question. We suggest following up with all specialists and asking what other option(s) besides the one they have provided you with are available for your particular case. Tell them to think outside the local area in which you are in, what would be all options for your case. Many times, they may not offer you a treatment option simply because it's not available in your country. Another reason could be that you are seeing a specialist who knows her/his particular area of expertise, however the doctor should also share with you if there are other options outside her/his specialty which you should consider consulting with for treatment option(s). Also, ask what do the studies say are the outcomes of the particular treatment they are recommending, what are the side effects and the risks associated with their recommendation? Statistics of success? We would even ask for those studies/journals and you ready them for yourself and educate yourself. Lastly, we suggest getting 2nd, 3rd or even 4th opinions and then make a more informed decision.
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Q: My doctor is hesitant in providing me with a copy of my own medical records. What should I do?A: Unfortunately, we have encountered this far too often. In the U.S., it is a legal patient right to have a copy of your medical records, however we cannot say this for the rest of the world. So, I would be persistent as a patient and kindly ask your doctor's practice to provide you with a copy of all records because you are being diligent and organizing a file with your case. If need be, it is only right to also have your family/caretaker involved to keep your medical file organized. You are entitled to receive a second, third or fourth opinion. If need be, ask that you pay for a copy of the medical records and get it expedited and pick it up when ready. Same goes for a copy of images/a CD with diagnostics you may need to ask for at a hospital. In the U.S., it is our right, however we also pay a nominal fee per page per copy and the usual turn-around time here to have a copy ready to be picked up or e-mail to us is about 1-4 business days. We also ask that when you go to a specialist and bring a copy of your records, do not leave your only copy with them. Show them your records and ask them to make a copy for their records. You always keep your own copy.
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Q: Do any of your providers accept my local insurance?A: It depends. If you send us a copy of your insurance card, front and back, with your medical record, we can certainly look into the coverage you may have while here. You can also contact your insurance and ask them what are the requirements to cover your service. At times, if the service/treatment is not available in your home country, they cover, depending on your policy. You can always confirm with them directly and they will let you know the details. Many times, we have seen patients pay for service here and bring a reimbursement form, which our provider will fill out, and then you can go back to your insurer and get reimbursed for that service/treatment, however we ask that you confirm this information with your insurance company and we recommend that they also confirm this in writing to you, unless your policy dictates this reimbursement.
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Q: Most of your institutions seem to be outpatient centers, meaning not in a big hospital, why?"A: Yes absolutely! we try our very best to keep you outside of a hospital for services which can be accessed through an outpatient center, because their costs are usually exuberant. Here in the U.S., hospitals get the right to charge patients up to 10X more than an outpatient center simply because they have a big overhead (costs to maintain the hospital) thus they pass those exuberant costs onto the patient and are justified to charge so. For example, a simple diagnostic test can cost up to 10X less in an outpatient center vs. a hospital and the quality are at par and at times, superior to a hospital but yet and still they are justified in charging so much more. Same goes for any other treatment. Many patients do not know this information and get caught paying exuberant amounts for routine services.
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Q: Should I book my travel and then contact you?A: No, unless it's an emergency and at that point, we advise you call 911 (or your nearest hospital/ambulance) in your own home country and get stabilized before traveling. If it is not an emergency, we advise you get your medical records together and send to us asap. You can contact us immediately and advise us of your case with the records and we can act quickly to advise you on next steps. Then you can book travel more efficiently, not wasting time and resources, by contacting us first before making travel arrangements.
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Q: Do we pay H.O.P.E. for the services we receive? Who do we pay for services?A: Patient is responsible for making payments for all tests and services directly to each provider(s) where the patient/client is being seen. We are not held responsible for collecting anything. We provide the client with an estimate or cost, which we receive from the provider, however the provider collects the funds from the client. We do not handle any funds. If for any reason, the patient has left the provider without paying, it is the responsibility of the patient to ensure payment is made immediately. If you do not make payment, bills will be sent to you directly, depending on the hospital/doctor procedures on how long this may take. Patient makes those payments directly to the provider/facility as indicated on the relevant invoice. If you for any reason end up in an emergency situation and check into a hospital, it is a separate charge from any provider we work with and you will deal with the hospital directly. Their charges are exuberant and if you have no insurance, they usually will stabilize a patient and still ask for your insurance or a deposit to continue any treatment or service. We have absolutely nothing to do with hospital institutions and how they charge or their costs. We can try to assist with your case regardless in advocating for you, however it is up to total discretion of hospital on what their charges are. Form of Payment accepted at our network of provider’s office is USD currency, cash or credit card. If using a credit card, it is your responsibility to call your bank and advise them of your travel in advance and advise them of the $ quantities (even if estimates) to be paid out to providers here in the U.S. We advise that you carry if possible more than 1 credit card in order to have a back up when making payment to our network of provider(s).
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Q: What happens if I as a patient do not want to go to your providers and instead a big institution such as a hospital in S. FL or NY, can H.O.P.E. still help?"A: Yes absolutely. We will always offer you the providers we work with simply because it's where we would go should we need a particular service; the doctors and specialists we work with are solid, well-trained and specialist in their respective field; their work speaks for itself; their technology; beautiful centers; their customer service by their wonderful staff - all were hand-picked for us to work with. They understand our patient's needs for excellent customer service, expedited service and they understand our urgency in access to care and finally their costs are competitive and have been set for our patients to be able to afford. For all these reasons, we work with our providers. However, if a patient has a specific request to go elsewhere, we will certainly still assist with concierge service but at that point, cannot guarantee all we have to offer. We can navigate the system for you as well and get you in, however the guarantee of us getting you the expedited concierge service is limited and the costs are usually set. We will negotiate as much as possible, however they are very little flexible.
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Q: Does H.O.P.E. charge for its concierge services?The Founder believes in helping people in their tough times and for years, we did not charge. We continue to not let a fee stop a patient from contacting us and us helping them. Every case is not the same so we may not charge depending on the need. We have a staple one time fee of $385USD which takes care of a one time evaluation of your case and set up of appointments, etc. H.O.P.E. is a not a charity/NGO organization nor a non-profit company. We have other avenues to maintain our business. Please note that we do not charge NGO/Foundation referred patients. Their fee will be waived always, please let us know which foundation or support organization referred you.
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Q: Is H.O.P.E. a charity organization? What happens if I have a patient who simply cannot afford to pay for services, can you still help us?"A: H.O.P.E. is not a foundation, not an NGO, not a charity organization, however we have collaborations with many organizations and depending on the case we are dealing with, there may be option(s) to seek assistance through these collaborations. Please don't let limited finances/resources prevent you from seeking our assistance. We have been able to help others through various cases. We can't promise to do so in every case, however we will try our best! Eventually H.O.P.E.'s goal is to be able to directly assist those who cannot afford service/treatment. We are not there yet but we are working towards that goal!
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Q: Does H.O.P.E. get compensated by the providers they work with?A: Most of them no - all are selected based on what specialty is needed. However we have a couple of providers in which we do international marketing consulting. We will never be biased by whom we work with to get the patient the service or treatment they need. We have hand-picked the providers for their quality of work, their training, their service, their team members/staff/personnel and we do not receive compensation thus we pick them based on quality. Again, if a patient has a preference for another center, we will honor this preference.
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Q: I just received a serious diagnosis/illness. What do I do? What are my options? How much is this going to cost?A: These are typical questions. We are here to help you. You can contact us at our phone # listed, however the most efficient way for us to help you is by asking your doctor for a copy of your diagnosis and all the medical records associated with your case. You can e-mail or fax this info to us with a summary of how you were diagnosed, dates and any treatments you may have been on (in your own words is fine, it gives us a background of your case). We will then have it reviewed by specialists through our network of providers. It only takes 1-2 days to get an opinion. Once they review, we will have treatment recommendation and option(s) together with costs. We work rather quickly so the quicker you get us your medical records, the quicker we can assist you. Please note that without medical records, we will still speak to you but cannot guide you much onto next steps. When you call us, we will advise this first, to get a copy of your medical records.
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Q: How quickly can I expect to have an appointment for a service?A: We work quickly with every appointment, however it really depends on the complexity of your case and the service needed. We are known to confirm appointment(s) as soon as same day, however this would be for a diagnostics test or a consultation, however if your case is a rare case or very complex case, then it may take more time but usually we would work for the same week. The key to expediting your appointment(s) is that you send us a copy of your medical records. Why? because this avoids a waste of time by us expediting your appointment and when you get here, if you don't have records, your appointment will not be as effective, meaning if a test is missing or a report is missing, you may need to get it done again which means more $ and delays in getting a proper recommendation by specialist.
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Q: Why do I have to fill out the registration and sign the consent form?A: Here in the U.S., we have to abide by HIPAAA law which is to protect patients and their confidential information. Without this form, we cannot assist you.
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Q: I am a caretaker, family and my mom/dad has been diagnosed. We want to come to U.S. for treatment but do not know where to start or even if we need to leave our country for treatment of this diagnosis?"A: Whether you are the patient or you are caring for family and parents who is faced with a serious diagnosis or condition, navigating the complex U.S. healthcare environment can be challenging. We take on the burden of these challenges to deliver the resources and access you need when you need them. However, even before providing you with options here in the U.S., we would assess which specialist(s) and/or treatment(s) is available in your country. We always provide you with options at home first and then also options here in the U.S. Based on our experience and knowledge of what's available in your country, we can guide you. If you do not have a particular service/treatment optimally available, then we provide you with our services here which are: Serve as your personal health advocate Access to have your case reviewed by specialists to guide you. Specialist Second Opinion: we have standing relationships with specialists, which enables us to connect individuals with quality treatment options for a specific medical need. Organize and expedite your appointment(s). Access to great discounts to cost for service(s) and treatment(s). Medical Record Management: As appropriate and with patient consent, we will gather, organize, and transfer relevant medical records in advance of an expedited appointment. Access to all your medical records. We communicate with your medical team(s), home country and abroad, have them kept abreast of your case. We assist patients with understanding their medical options, their bills and their care. We liaise with your insurance company, when permitted, to access authorization(s), coverage details. We attend appointments and follow-up with patient, a patient navigator, when needed. Provide assistance with travel coordination from hotel discounts, transportation, etc. Provide solutions to healthcare challenges. Provide health and wellness service options.
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Q: I feel very confused. I have seen 3 specialists and they all recommend a different treatment. What should I do?A: This is a very common question. We suggest following up with all specialists and asking what other option(s) besides the one they have provided you with are available for your particular case. Tell them to think outside the local area in which you are in, what would be all options for your case. Many times, they may not offer you a treatment option simply because it's not available in your country. Another reason could be that you are seeing a specialist who knows her/his particular area of expertise, however the doctor should also share with you if there are other options outside her/his specialty which you should consider consulting with for treatment option(s). Also, ask what do the studies say are the outcomes of the particular treatment they are recommending, what are the side effects and the risks associated with their recommendation? Statistics of success? We would even ask for those studies/journals and you ready them for yourself and educate yourself. Lastly, we suggest getting 2nd, 3rd or even 4th opinions and then make a more informed decision.
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Q: My doctor is hesitant in providing me with a copy of my own medical records. What should I do?A: Unfortunately, we have encountered this far too often. In the U.S., it is a legal patient right to have a copy of your medical records, however we cannot say this for the rest of the world. So, I would be persistent as a patient and kindly ask your doctor's practice to provide you with a copy of all records because you are being diligent and organizing a file with your case. If need be, it is only right to also have your family/caretaker involved to keep your medical file organized. You are entitled to receive a second, third or fourth opinion. If need be, ask that you pay for a copy of the medical records and get it expedited and pick it up when ready. Same goes for a copy of images/a CD with diagnostics you may need to ask for at a hospital. In the U.S., it is our right, however we also pay a nominal fee per page per copy and the usual turn-around time here to have a copy ready to be picked up or e-mail to us is about 1-4 business days. We also ask that when you go to a specialist and bring a copy of your records, do not leave your only copy with them. Show them your records and ask them to make a copy for their records. You always keep your own copy.
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Q: Do any of your providers accept my local insurance?A: It depends. If you send us a copy of your insurance card, front and back, with your medical record, we can certainly look into the coverage you may have while here. You can also contact your insurance and ask them what are the requirements to cover your service. At times, if the service/treatment is not available in your home country, they cover, depending on your policy. You can always confirm with them directly and they will let you know the details. Many times, we have seen patients pay for service here and bring a reimbursement form, which our provider will fill out, and then you can go back to your insurer and get reimbursed for that service/treatment, however we ask that you confirm this information with your insurance company and we recommend that they also confirm this in writing to you, unless your policy dictates this reimbursement.
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Q: Most of your institutions seem to be outpatient centers, meaning not in a big hospital, why?"A: Yes absolutely! we try our very best to keep you outside of a hospital for services which can be accessed through an outpatient center, because their costs are usually exuberant. Here in the U.S., hospitals get the right to charge patients up to 10X more than an outpatient center simply because they have a big overhead (costs to maintain the hospital) thus they pass those exuberant costs onto the patient and are justified to charge so. For example, a simple diagnostic test can cost up to 10X less in an outpatient center vs. a hospital and the quality are at par and at times, superior to a hospital but yet and still they are justified in charging so much more. Same goes for any other treatment. Many patients do not know this information and get caught paying exuberant amounts for routine services.
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Q: Should I book my travel and then contact you?A: No, unless it's an emergency and at that point, we advise you call 911 (or your nearest hospital/ambulance) in your own home country and get stabilized before traveling. If it is not an emergency, we advise you get your medical records together and send to us asap. You can contact us immediately and advise us of your case with the records and we can act quickly to advise you on next steps. Then you can book travel more efficiently, not wasting time and resources, by contacting us first before making travel arrangements.
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Q: Do we pay H.O.P.E. for the services we receive? Who do we pay for services?A: Patient is responsible for making payments for all tests and services directly to each provider(s) where the patient/client is being seen. We are not held responsible for collecting anything. We provide the client with an estimate or cost, which we receive from the provider, however the provider collects the funds from the client. We do not handle any funds. If for any reason, the patient has left the provider without paying, it is the responsibility of the patient to ensure payment is made immediately. If you do not make payment, bills will be sent to you directly, depending on the hospital/doctor procedures on how long this may take. Patient makes those payments directly to the provider/facility as indicated on the relevant invoice. If you for any reason end up in an emergency situation and check into a hospital, it is a separate charge from any provider we work with and you will deal with the hospital directly. Their charges are exuberant and if you have no insurance, they usually will stabilize a patient and still ask for your insurance or a deposit to continue any treatment or service. We have absolutely nothing to do with hospital institutions and how they charge or their costs. We can try to assist with your case regardless in advocating for you, however it is up to total discretion of hospital on what their charges are. Form of Payment accepted at our network of provider’s office is USD currency, cash or credit card. If using a credit card, it is your responsibility to call your bank and advise them of your travel in advance and advise them of the $ quantities (even if estimates) to be paid out to providers here in the U.S. We advise that you carry if possible more than 1 credit card in order to have a back up when making payment to our network of provider(s).
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Q: What happens if I as a patient do not want to go to your providers and instead a big institution such as a hospital in S. FL or NY, can H.O.P.E. still help?"A: Yes absolutely. We will always offer you the providers we work with simply because it's where we would go should we need a particular service; the doctors and specialists we work with are solid, well-trained and specialist in their respective field; their work speaks for itself; their technology; beautiful centers; their customer service by their wonderful staff - all were hand-picked for us to work with. They understand our patient's needs for excellent customer service, expedited service and they understand our urgency in access to care and finally their costs are competitive and have been set for our patients to be able to afford. For all these reasons, we work with our providers. However, if a patient has a specific request to go elsewhere, we will certainly still assist with concierge service but at that point, cannot guarantee all we have to offer. We can navigate the system for you as well and get you in, however the guarantee of us getting you the expedited concierge service is limited and the costs are usually set. We will negotiate as much as possible, however they are very little flexible.
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Q: Does H.O.P.E. charge for its concierge services?The Founder believes in helping people in their tough times and for years, we did not charge. We continue to not let a fee stop a patient from contacting us and us helping them. Every case is not the same so we may not charge depending on the need. We have a staple one time fee of $385USD which takes care of a one time evaluation of your case and set up of appointments, etc. H.O.P.E. is a not a charity/NGO organization nor a non-profit company. We have other avenues to maintain our business. Please note that we do not charge NGO/Foundation referred patients. Their fee will be waived always, please let us know which foundation or support organization referred you.
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Q: Is H.O.P.E. a charity organization? What happens if I have a patient who simply cannot afford to pay for services, can you still help us?"A: H.O.P.E. is not a foundation, not an NGO, not a charity organization, however we have collaborations with many organizations and depending on the case we are dealing with, there may be option(s) to seek assistance through these collaborations. Please don't let limited finances/resources prevent you from seeking our assistance. We have been able to help others through various cases. We can't promise to do so in every case, however we will try our best! Eventually H.O.P.E.'s goal is to be able to directly assist those who cannot afford service/treatment. We are not there yet but we are working towards that goal!
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Q: Does H.O.P.E. get compensated by the providers they work with?A: Most of them no - all are selected based on what specialty is needed. However we have a couple of providers in which we do international marketing consulting. We will never be biased by whom we work with to get the patient the service or treatment they need. We have hand-picked the providers for their quality of work, their training, their service, their team members/staff/personnel and we do not receive compensation thus we pick them based on quality. Again, if a patient has a preference for another center, we will honor this preference.