FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Get Answers From the Germain Dermatology Team
What is a dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a physician with both medical and surgical training, certified by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) to treat medical and/or cosmetic conditions and diseases of the skin, scalp, hair, and nails.
What conditions can dermatology treat?
Dermatology treats conditions affecting the skin, scalp, hair, and nails. Most common conditions include, but are not limited to, acne, psoriasis, rosacea, skin cancer, wrinkles, dry skin, sun/brown spots, pigmentation problems, warts, rashes, bacterial or fungal skin and nail infections, spider and varicose veins, and sun damage. The practice of dermatology also treats cosmetic conditions relating to the skin, face, and body.
Will my visit be covered by my insurance?
Many medical dermatology (and even some cosmetic) treatments may be covered under insurance plans. As with any medical treatments, coverage and costs vary, depending upon the scale and severity of the condition, as well as the treatment method. For treatments not covered, we offer a range of convenient payment options. To see what your options are, visit our finance page.
Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist?
No. If you would like to have a consultation, simply contact us at (843) 881–4440 and we will schedule an appointment convenient for you. Please note, however, that insurance policies may vary and a referral may be necessary for insurance to cover some forms of treatment. Contacting your insurance company is the best way to determine your individual benefits.
What is a physician assistant?
Physician assistants are licensed healthcare providers defined as dependent practitioners who work under the supervision of a physician. PAs in dermatology both diagnose and treat a wide variety of skin, hair, and nail conditions that are medical, surgical, as well as cosmetic in nature.
What should I expect during my first visit?
After examining your history, paperwork, and concerns, we will conduct a thorough skin examination. During this exam, your doctor will examine the skin over your whole body, looking for suspicious growths, moles, or lesions. The exam is performed using a bright light and occasionally a magnifying lens. The scalp is examined by parting the hair. Your doctor will then make a diagnosis and discuss your detailed treatment plan. We want to make sure we answer all of your questions during your appointment. For a smoother visit, please write down your questions beforehand and bring them with you. Being open and informed is key to a great patient-doctor relationship.
Is it okay to wear makeup to my appointment?
We will need you to have a fresh, clean face, so no makeup is best.
What is your Cancellation/No Show Policy?
Missed Cosmetic appointments
Our office requires a 48-hr notice for all cosmetic appointment cancellations. There is a $50 fee for a no show or cancellation less than 48 hours in advance.
Missed Medical Dermatology appointments
Our office requires a 24-hour notice for all medical appointment cancellations. If a patient no shows or fails to notify us within 24 hours of the reserved appointment the fee is $50
Saturday Appointments
Because these appointments are rare and book quickly time and space is limited. Our office requires a 72-hour notice FOR ALL Saturday appointment cancellations. There is a $50 fee for a no show or cancellation less than 72 hours in advance.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Appointment Reminders & No-Show
Germain Dermatology gives a courtesy reminder call or text for appointments. It is the responsibility of the patient to show for all appointments scheduled. Missed appointments will incur a $50 fee.
APPOINTMENTS
Missed Cosmetic Appointments
Our office requires a 48-hour notice for all cosmetic appointment cancellations. There is a $50 fee for a no show or cancellation less than 48 hours in advance.
Missed Medical Dermatology Appointments
Our office requires a 24-hour notice for all medical appointment cancellations. If a patient no shows or fails to notify us within 24 hours of the reserved appointment the fee is $50.
Saturday
Appointments
Because these appointments are rare and book quickly time and space is limited. Our office requires a 72-hour notice FOR ALL Saturday appointment cancellations. There is a $50 fee for a no show or cancellation less than 72 hours in advance
Information Updates: With the Patient Portal, you have access to your account. If any of your information changes at any time, please log into the portal and update your information for us to avoid delays in billing, statements and communications.
Prescriptions & Renewals: Please utilize the Patient Portal for all Prescription questions and refill requests. Simply send us a message with your requests and our Triage staff will work on your request appropriately. You may also text us securely at 843-865-2999 to submit your request.
Insurance & Billing Questions: As a courtesy to our patients, we file to most insurance companies. This does not imply in-network coverage or benefits. If you have questions regarding your statements or billing, please reach out to our Insurance & Billing Department at 843-881-4440, and select option 7. If you need to speak with someone immediately, please select option 0 and ask to speak to Insurance & Billing.
Patient Portal: We utilize our Patient Portal for you to update your information and medical history, and upload a copy of your photo ID and insurance cards prior to your visit. Completing this before your appointment will ensure a smooth and easy Contactless Check-In process in our office.
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You, the patient, are the focus at Germain Dermatology.