Scope of Practice

I consider it important to provide transparency regarding services that fall outside of my scope of practice.

 

[1] There are no guarantees in medicine. The human body is fascinating and incredible, but alas, sometimes unpredictable. All treatments have potential risks. To justify the risks, they must be outweighed by the potential benefits. If I feel the risks of a treatment outweigh the potential benefits, I will not offer or continue the treatment.

 

[2] My practice focuses on the medical management of chronic conditions, guiding diagnostic evaluations, and care coordination with local specialists.

 

[3] I do not perform sensitive examinations (rectal exams, breast exams, genital exams) in my office. When a sensitive exam is necessary, you will be referred to setting where the

necessary support staff are present.

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[4] I do not provide urgent care, emergency care, hospital care, or home visits.

 

[5] There is no physician on-call outside of scheduled appointments. If you develop an urgent medical need that cannot wait for a scheduled appointment, you should be seen at a local urgent care. If you are experiencing a potential emergency, you should be seen at an emergency department. If you are unable get to an emergency department, you should call 911.

 

[6] I avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics to protect your microbiome and protect you from antibiotic resistant infections.

 

[7] I do not prescribe potentially addictive substances for long term use (except for end-of-life care). Examples are: Benzodiazepines (Ativan, Xanax, Clonazepam) for anxiety, opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone, dilaudid) for pain, stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse) for ADHD, and some muscle relaxants (Soma). I prescribe these medications when necessary for short-term use (usually limited to 1 week duration).

 

[8] I do not manage Testosterone replacement therapy. Interested patients will be referred to a community specialist.

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[9] Telemedicine is limited to those situations where vital signs and physical exam are not required for medical decision-making.

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[10] I do not perform workers compensation evaluations or disability certifications.