Lisa Larkin, M.D. & Associates is pleased to introduce shared medical visits for our patients. Shared medical visits are 90-minute sessions on a particular topic, such as sexual health or menopause, for approximately 12 patients in each visit.
With benefits such as support provided by fellow patients in a group setting, facilitation of frank discussions led by one of our physicians, and a focus on wellness and education, shared medical visits are an additional asset in our journey to provide you with optimal health. These visits are typically covered by insurance.
What are shared medical visits?
Shared medical visits (SMVs) are an innovative way to enhance and supplement the care we provide to our menopausal and perimenopausal patients.
Shared medical visits bring together approximately 12 women for a 90-minute visit in a common meeting space in our offices. We discuss health concerns relevant to you, provide support in a group environment and share education and information on medical advances.
What’s the history of shared medical visits?
Shared medical visits got their start in 1996 at Kaiser Permanente. Since then, they have expanded across the country due to the numerous benefits provided to patients. For example, the Center for Women’s Specialized Care at the Cleveland Clinic uses shared medical visits for patients, and many practices are using shared medical visits for diabetes management.
When are shared medical visits offered at Lisa Larkin, M.D. & Associates?
Shared medical visits are typically offered once a month. To accommodate our patients’ work and family obligations, visits are offered Saturday mornings or Thursday evenings.
What are the upcoming topics?
The next SMV, will focus on perimenopause and menopause, is scheduled for Thursday, May 24, from 6:30 to 8 pm, at our office, and will be led by Lisa Larkin, MD, NCMP. To register, please call the office at 513.271.5111 or send an email to officeinfo@lisalarkinmd.com.
Are visits covered by insurance?
Yes, shared medical visits are covered by insurance. If you have questions about how your particular insurance might cover SMAs, contact our Keri Rickenbaugh in our office.
How do I schedule a shared medical visit?
You can schedule SMVs by calling the practice or emailing the office at officeinfo@lisalarkinmd.com.
Who will facilitate the shared medical visits?
The SMVs will be led by our physicians.
With other patients in the room, how will you protect my privacy?
Each patient will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement to ensure her privacy and that of other attending patients is protected.
What are the benefits of shared medical visits?
Published articles outline a number of benefits in using the SMV as a supplement to private exams. They include:
- Increased access to your physician
- Increased education
- Updates on changes or advances in medicine for a particular topic
- Opportunity to ask questions about your own health, and learn from other patients asking questions about experiences similar to yours
- Support and group dynamics between patients in the practice