This form outlines key agreements regarding your care at Houston Gastro Institute. Please read carefully before signing. By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the policies described and consent to evaluation and treatment by our medical professionals.
General Practice Policies
Informed Consent: Before any surgical procedure or significant treatment, medical professionals will provide a detailed explanation of its nature, purpose, benefits, and potential risks. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, and informed consent will be obtained before proceeding.
Anti-Racism and Anti-Hate Statement: The institute is committed to fostering inclusivity, respect, and equality, firmly standing against racism, discrimination, and hate. They strive to create a safe space for all individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status.
Acknowledgment of Financial Policy
It is your responsibility to provide current insurance and billing information and to understand your insurance coverage. If a claim is denied, you will be financially responsible. You are expected to pay your co-payments, deductibles, or any outstanding balances at the time of your visit. If paying out-of-pocket, full payment is expected at the time of service.
Third-Party Billing: For diagnostic services (e.g. labs, imaging, specialty testing) ordered from third parties, it is your responsibility to verify network coverage and benefits with your insurance. The office does not handle these verifications or submit claims for these services.
Cancellation and No-Show Fees: A $50 will be charged for an office appointment and $150 for procedure appointment for "No Show" and cancelling or rescheduling without 48-hour notice. All fees must be collected before you can reschedule an appointment.
Medical Record Fee: Requests for hard copies of medical records are subject to a $25 administrative fee.
Administrative forms Fee: e.g. FMLA, Disability Forms that need to be completed by the physician are subject to a $50 administrative fee.
Acknowledgment of Privacy Practices (HIPAA)
You have certain rights to privacy regarding your protected health information under HIPAA. Your health information will be used for your treatment, to obtain payment from third parties, and for normal healthcare operations (like quality assurance You have the right to review and copy your health information and request changes if you believe it's incomplete. You can also request in writing to restrict how your information is used or disclosed, though the facility may not always accept these restrictions.
Group Nutrition Visit Consent
These are virtual group visits led by Dr. Vivian Asamoah and a Registered Dietician offering education and personalized recommendations on nutrition and lifestyle to help manage or potentially reverse conditions like GERD (Acid Reflux), Fatty Liver, and Constipation, and Gluten Sensitivity. Other patients will be present. While everyone is asked to keep information confidential, complete privacy cannot be guaranteed in a group setting. Your insurance may cover this program, or you can choose a self-pay option of $50 per session if not covered.