FAQ

Doctors practicing under insurance can experience moral injury due to a range of challenges stemming from the complexities of the healthcare system and insurance industry. Here are some ways in which doctors may encounter moral injury within the insurance-based healthcare model: 1. Treatment Constraints: Doctors may be required to adhere to insurance policies and guidelines that dictate the treatments and medications they can prescribe for patients. When doctors believe that a different treatment would be more beneficial for their patients but are limited by insurance coverage, they can experience moral distress. 2. Rationing Care: Limited coverage, high deductibles, and copays can lead to doctors needing to make difficult decisions about which tests, treatments, or referrals to recommend to patients. The financial burden on patients and the pressure to balance cost and care can cause moral conflict. 3. Time Constraints: Insurance-based practices often prioritize high patient volumes to manage revenue. Doctors might not have sufficient time to spend with each patient to fully address their medical concerns or to build meaningful doctor-patient relationships, leading to feelings of moral distress when care is compromised. 4. Denials and Appeals: Doctors often need to advocate for their patients to receive necessary treatments or medications that insurance providers might initially deny. This bureaucratic process can be emotionally draining and create a sense of moral injury when doctors witness their patients suffering due to insurance decisions. 5. Conflict of Interest: Insurance contracts and financial incentives can create conflicts of interest for doctors, who may feel pressured to prioritize cost containment over what they believe is the best medical care for their patients. 6. Documentation Burden: Insurance billing and documentation requirements can be time-consuming and take doctors away from direct patient care. This administrative burden can contribute to moral injury if doctors feel they are spending more time on paperwork than on patient well-being. 7. Limited Referral Options: Insurance networks might limit the choice of specialists or facilities for patients, forcing doctors to refer patients to providers who may not align with the patient's best interests. Since her life changing breast cancer journey Dr. Lightning has embarked upon a transformative journey, driven by an unwavering commitment to transcend the burden of moral injury that has cast a shadow over the conventional healthcare landscape. Guided by an ethos of elevated care and ethical precision, Dr. Lightning has resolved to step away from the confines of the insurance model and embrace the visionary realm of Direct Primary Care. This bold stride is a testament to Dr. Lightning's resolute dedication to redefining the doctor-patient relationship and fostering an environment of ethical congruence. Today, as a beacon of resilience and healing, Dr. Lightning continues to exemplify the transformative power of the human spirit, standing as a testament to the boundless possibilities that emerge when passion, purpose, and perseverance intersect. Her journey reminds us all that amidst life's trials, there exists a remarkable capacity for triumph, transformation, and the remarkable resilience that defines the human experience.

Is Direct Primary Care worth it? It's a question that goes beyond financial considerations and delves into the heart of your healthcare priorities. Before making a decision, consider asking yourself these probing questions: 1. What is the Value of My Health?: How much do you value having a direct and personal relationship with your primary care provider? Is having extended appointment times, direct communication, and proactive wellness guidance something you prioritize? 2. Am I Looking for Convenience?: Do you want the convenience of same-day or next-day appointments, virtual consultations, and direct messaging with your doctor? How important is it for you to have timely access to healthcare without the hassle of waiting or dealing with insurance bureaucracy? 3. What About Preventive Care?: Are you invested in preventive care and wellness? Direct Primary Care often places a strong emphasis on proactive health management. Consider if you're seeking a healthcare approach that focuses on staying healthy rather than just treating illnesses. 4. Do I Want Transparent Pricing?: Are you tired of dealing with confusing insurance billing, co-pays, and hidden costs? Direct Primary Care provides transparent pricing, allowing you to know exactly what you're paying for without surprises. 5. Can I Afford It?: While Direct Primary Care can offer great value, it's important to assess your budget. Compare the cost of membership to your current healthcare expenses, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and deductibles. 6. What are My Health Needs?: Consider your current health needs. Are you managing chronic conditions? Do you have a family with diverse healthcare needs? Evaluate if the personalized care and comprehensive services offered by Direct Primary Care align with your health profile. 7. Am I Willing to Invest in Long-Term Health?: Think about the long-term benefits. Investing in proactive care now could lead to better health outcomes and fewer complications down the road. Are you ready to prioritize your well-being? 8. Is Flexibility Important?: Evaluate if having flexible communication options with your doctor, such as virtual consultations and direct messaging, aligns with your lifestyle and healthcare preferences. 9. How Do I Navigate Emergencies?: Consider how you'll manage emergencies or specialized care needs that are beyond the scope of primary care. Assess whether you're comfortable having insurance alongside Direct Primary Care for comprehensive coverage. 10. Am I Seeking a Meaningful Doctor-Patient Relationship?: Reflect on the importance of having a trusted healthcare advocate who knows you personally. Direct Primary Care fosters stronger doctor-patient relationships, allowing for more personalized and holistic care. Direct Primary Care challenges the traditional healthcare model, offering personalized, accessible, and transparent care. Ultimately, the decision of whether it's worth it depends on your healthcare priorities, values, and aspirations for a healthier future.

All DPC Membership pricing can be found by clicking the button below:

Here's why you should still consider DPC services even if you have insurance: 1. Enhanced Access and Convenience: With DPC, you'll have direct access to your primary care provider, Dr. Lightning, without the need for referrals or long wait times. This means you can receive timely care, same-day or next-day appointments, and even virtual consultations, all of which can be extremely valuable when dealing with minor illnesses, preventive care, or managing chronic conditions. 2. Comprehensive and Personalized Care: DPC services prioritize the doctor-patient relationship, allowing for more in-depth conversations and personalized treatment plans. Dr. Lightning can take the time to understand your unique health needs and concerns, resulting in tailored care strategies that align with your goals and lifestyle. 3. No Insurance Hassles: Dealing with insurance paperwork, copays, and deductibles can be time-consuming and confusing. DPC eliminates these hassles by offering transparent and straightforward pricing. You'll know exactly what you're paying for, and there are no surprise bills or hidden costs. 4. Preventive and Wellness Focus: DPC places a strong emphasis on preventive care and overall wellness. Dr. Lightning can work with you to create a proactive health plan that aims to prevent issues before they become major health concerns. This can lead to better long-term health outcomes and fewer medical interventions down the line. 5. Extended Appointment Times: Traditional healthcare visits are often rushed due to time constraints. With DPC, you'll have extended appointment times, allowing for thorough discussions about your health concerns, questions, and treatment options. This leads to a more comprehensive understanding of your health and better-informed decisions. 6. Coordination and Advocacy: Dr. Lightning can serve as your healthcare advocate, helping you navigate the complexities of the medical system, coordinating specialist referrals, and ensuring you receive the right care at the right time. 7. Cost-Effectiveness: DPC services often have reasonable monthly fees, and when you factor in the value of unlimited office visits, direct communication with your provider, and personalized care, it can lead to cost savings in the long run, especially for routine and preventive care needs. Incorporating DPC alongside your insurance coverage provides a holistic approach to your healthcare. It fills the gaps left by traditional insurance models, offering you more control, better accessibility, and a stronger focus on your overall well-being.

Your DPC membership does NOT replace your health insurance. In most cases, it's still advisable to maintain health insurance coverage even if you have a Direct Primary Care (DPC) membership. DPC and health insurance serve different purposes and can complement each other to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage. Here's why you should consider keeping your health insurance alongside a DPC membership: 1. Coverage for Specialized Care and Emergencies: Health insurance is crucial for covering specialized medical services such as surgeries, hospitalizations, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and emergency care. DPC memberships primarily focus on primary care services, preventive care, and routine health needs, but they may not cover all medical situations that require specialized treatment. 2. Protection Against Catastrophic Costs: Health insurance provides a safety net in case of significant medical expenses. Serious medical conditions or accidents can result in high costs that may not be covered by a DPC membership alone. Health insurance helps protect you from financial burdens during unforeseen medical events. 3. Coverage for Medications and Procedures: Health insurance often covers prescription medications and medical procedures beyond the scope of primary care. If you require ongoing medications or specialized procedures, health insurance can ensure that you receive the necessary treatments without incurring substantial out-of-pocket costs. 4. Compliance with Legal Requirements: Depending on your location and local regulations, having health insurance might be legally required. Maintaining insurance helps you adhere to any legal obligations related to healthcare coverage. 5. Travel and Out-of-Network Care: Health insurance can provide coverage when you're traveling or require care from providers outside your DPC network. DPC memberships are typically localized and may not cover care obtained while you're away from home. 6. Diversified Healthcare Approach: Combining DPC and health insurance allows you to benefit from both personalized primary care services and comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical needs. Ultimately, the decision to keep health insurance alongside a DPC membership depends on your individual healthcare needs, financial situation, and preferences. Consulting with a financial advisor or insurance expert can help you assess your specific circumstances and make an informed decision about the right combination of healthcare coverage for you.

Under the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model, there are several ways you can have visits with your doctor, ensuring convenience, accessibility, and personalized care. Here are the common methods through which you can interact with your doctor under the DPC model at Lightning VIP: 1. In-Person Office Visits: The traditional in-person office visit is a hallmark of the DPC model. You can schedule appointments to see your doctor face-to-face at the clinic. These visits allow for thorough physical examinations, hands-on assessments, and in-depth discussions about your health concerns. 2. Virtual Consultations: Lightning VIP offers virtual consultations, allowing you to have appointments with your doctor remotely. These video or phone appointments are particularly convenient for follow-up discussions, minor health issues, medication adjustments, and general health advice. Virtual consultations provide flexibility and save you travel time. 3. Direct Messaging: The Lightning VIP DPC membership includes the ability to directly message your doctor through a secure online platform. You can ask questions, discuss concerns, request prescription refills, and receive medical advice. This asynchronous communication is convenient for non-urgent matters and ongoing communication. 4. Phone Consultations: Lightning VIP offers the option of phone consultations. This can be useful for quick check-ins, clarifications about treatment plans, or discussing minor health issues without the need for an in-person or virtual appointment. 5. Text Messaging: Lightning VIP offers text messaging as a way to communicate with your doctor. This can be especially helpful for brief questions or updates. 6. Home Visits: For a travel fee, Lightning VIP offers home visits for patients who have difficulty traveling to the clinic. This is especially valuable for elderly or homebound individuals. The flexibility of Lightning VIP's DPC services allows you to choose the most suitable method for your interactions with your doctor based on your needs and preferences. This personalized approach to healthcare communication enhances the doctor-patient relationship and ensures that you receive the attention and care you deserve.

If you're interested in seeing Dr. Lightning for individual appointments without enrolling in the monthly Direct Primary Care (DPC) membership, Lightning VIP Clinic offers a flexible option that caters to your needs. You can certainly have appointments with Dr. Lightning and pay for each visit out of pocket without committing to the recurring quarterly fee of the DPC membership. This pay-per-visit model allows you to access Dr. Lightning's expertise and personalized care on a visit-by-visit basis. You'll still benefit from the high level of care, attention, and professionalism that Lightning VIP Clinic is known for, without the commitment of a long-term membership. It's important to note that while the DPC membership offers comprehensive benefits such as unlimited office visits, virtual consultations, and direct messaging with Dr. Lightning, the pay-per-visit option allows you to choose when and how often you see the doctor without the ongoing financial commitment. Feel free to reach out to Lightning VIP to inquire about the specific pricing for pay-per-visit appointments and any further details you may need to make an informed decision about your healthcare options.

Here are the five main reasons that Lightning VIP does not participate in the ICD-10 Coding System: 1. Simplicity and Efficiency: Some Direct Primary Care (DPC) practices prioritize simplicity and efficiency in their operations. By not using the ICD-10 coding system, they avoid the complexity and administrative burden associated with coding and billing for insurance reimbursement. This allows them to focus more on providing direct patient care rather than navigating the complexities of insurance billing. 2. Cost Reduction: Coding and billing for insurance reimbursement can be costly for medical practices. By opting out of participating in the ICD-10 coding system, a practice can reduce administrative expenses associated with coding software, training staff on coding procedures, and dealing with insurance claims and denials. 3. Patient-Centered Care: DPC practices often prioritize patient-centered care models, where the focus is on providing high-quality, personalized care directly to patients without the involvement of insurance companies. By not participating in the ICD-10 coding system, these practices can maintain a direct relationship with their patients and focus on meeting their healthcare needs rather than satisfying insurance billing requirements. 4. Flexibility in Treatment Approaches: Some DPC practices may offer alternative or complementary treatment approaches that may not fit neatly into the standard categories defined by the ICD-10 coding system. By not using standardized codes, these practices have more flexibility in documenting and billing for services that may not be recognized or reimbursed by insurance companies. Another reason why Lightning VIP does not to participate in the ICD-10 coding system is the concern that providing a diagnostic code can create a permanent medical label for the patient. This label, especially if it indicates a pre-existing or chronic condition, can have implications beyond immediate healthcare delivery. 5. Avoiding Permanent Medical Labels: Receiving a specific diagnosis through the ICD-10 coding system could result in a permanent medical label. This label might impact your ability to obtain affordable health insurance or life insurance in the future. Insurance companies often use medical histories and diagnoses as factors in determining coverage eligibility and premium rates. By avoiding diagnostic coding, DPC practices can help patients mitigate the risk of being labeled with a potentially stigmatizing or costly medical condition. This concern underscores the patient-centered approach of DPC practices, which prioritize the holistic well-being of their patients, including their long-term financial and insurance-related interests. By refraining from using diagnostic codes, we aim to protect patients from potential adverse consequences related to insurance coverage and ensure their access to affordable healthcare options. Overall, the decision not to participate in the ICD-10 coding system is often aligned with the principles and priorities of Direct Primary Care practices, which emphasize simplicity, cost-effectiveness, patient-centered care, and flexibility in treatment approaches.

Lightning VIP offers four weight loss management packages: All packages are inclusive. You receive: ongoing consultations with the provider, initial consultation and ongoing support from a certified nutritionist/personal trainer, weekly LIPO-B injections (if getting in-office injections), and intermittent body fat % measurement. All pricing is listed on our Become a Member page. The above pricing does not reflect the $150 initiation/membership fee, which is paid only 1 time for each 12-week package purchased.

Yes, there is an option to have the semaglutide shipped to your home for self-injection. However, because semaglutide must be refrigerated, shipped on ice, and sent with overnight or 2-day delivery, the shipping is very expensive. The cost for this is an additional $50 per vial. Some clinics will have the semaglutide shipped to their office in bulk (to cut down on shipping costs), and then they will dispense the medication to you directly. This is technically illegal, unless the facility has a dispensing license (most do not) and has obtained their semaglutide from a wholesaler (not a pharmacy). Lightning VIP DOES have a dispensing license and can help save you cost by offering in-office pick up.

Yes. We offer a semaglutide transfer package for $450/month for those who wish to transfer from a different program and start on a higher dose. However, because semaglutide is compounded, this means whoever your previous program's source is cannot be verified. We have had several patients transfer from other programs while being on semaglutide for months and still lose up to 2lbs weekly on our starting dose.

The terms & conditions of our weight loss program can be found here: Weight Loss Program Terms & Conditions

Yes! Please contact our office for details (725-243-1058)

Please DO NOT sign up for semaglutide/tirzepatide injections if any of the following apply to you: * Have a BMI LESS than 25 * Currently Pregnant or Breast Feeding (or trying to become pregnant) * Have a personal or FAMILY history of medullary thyroid cancer * Have been diagnosed with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 * Have been diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes * Have been diagnosed with Diabetic Retinopathy * Have ever been diagnosed with Pancreatitis * Must be 18 years old or older * Have a BMI that is 27 or less, with NO weight-related comorbidities Other considerations would be if you have a very abnormal blood count (anemia) or liver/kidney dysfunction. This can be determined through blood work.

These services will launch September 2023. For early consideration (July/August insertion), join our waitlist!

A bioidentical hormone replacement pellet is a small, custom-compounded hormone therapy that contains hormones chemically identical to those naturally produced by the human body. These pellets are typically made from plant-based sources and are designed to mimic the hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, that may decline with age or due to hormonal imbalances. The pellets are about the size of a grain of rice and are inserted just beneath the skin, typically in the hip or buttock area, during a minor outpatient procedure. Once inserted, the pellets slowly release hormones into the body over a period of several months, providing a steady and consistent hormone supply. Bioidentical hormone replacement pellets are tailored to each individual's specific hormone needs, as determined through comprehensive testing and evaluation. This approach aims to restore hormone levels to a more balanced state, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with hormonal deficiencies, such as hot flashes, fatigue, low libido, and mood swings. It's important to note that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, including pellets, should be prescribed and administered by qualified healthcare professionals after a thorough assessment of an individual's medical history and hormone levels.

While bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, like any medical treatment, it carries the potential for side effects. The specific side effects can vary depending on the individual, the hormones being used, and the dosage. Here are some potential side effects associated with BHRT: 1. Breast tenderness or swelling: Hormone replacement therapy, including BHRT, can sometimes cause breast discomfort or enlargement. 2. Fluid retention: Some individuals may experience water retention, leading to bloating and weight gain. 3. Mood changes: Hormones play a significant role in regulating mood, so altering hormone levels can potentially impact emotions and mood stability. 4. Acne or skin changes: Hormonal fluctuations can affect the skin, leading to changes such as acne breakouts or increased oiliness. 5. Headaches: Some people may experience headaches or migraines as a result of hormonal changes. 6. Irregular bleeding: BHRT can cause changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, including spotting or irregular periods. 7. Increased facial hair or hair thinning: Depending on the specific hormones used, individuals may experience changes in hair growth patterns. 8. Sleep disturbances: Hormonal fluctuations can potentially disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or restless sleep. 9. Digestive issues: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, nausea, or changes in bowel habits. It's important to note that these side effects are not experienced by everyone, and many individuals tolerate BHRT well. The dosage and hormone balance can be adjusted to minimize side effects. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in hormone therapy is crucial to ensure personalized treatment and monitoring.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) offers several potential benefits for individuals experiencing hormonal imbalances or deficiencies. Here are some key advantages of BHRT: 1. Symptom relief: BHRT can effectively alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal changes, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, fatigue, low libido, and vaginal dryness. By restoring hormone levels to a more balanced state, BHRT can significantly improve quality of life. 2. Individualized treatment: BHRT is customized to each individual's specific hormonal needs. Through comprehensive testing and evaluation, healthcare professionals can tailor the therapy to address the unique imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and more. This personalized approach maximizes the potential benefits while minimizing side effects. 3. Natural hormone replica: Bioidentical hormones used in BHRT have a molecular structure identical to the hormones naturally produced in the human body. This similarity allows for better compatibility and absorption compared to synthetic hormones, potentially reducing the risk of adverse effects. 4. Long-lasting effects: BHRT pellets, in particular, provide a sustained release of hormones over several months, ensuring a steady and consistent supply. This eliminates the need for daily hormone administration, as required with some other forms of hormone therapy. 5. Potential overall health benefits: Restoring hormone balance through BHRT may contribute to improved bone density, cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and muscle mass. Hormones play vital roles in various bodily functions, and optimizing their levels can have positive effects beyond symptom relief. It's important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of BHRT with a qualified healthcare professional, taking into consideration individual health history, hormone levels, and treatment goals.

You can use this account to make an online account to register for a medical marijuana card: https://mmportal.nv.gov/Account/Login This is where you start/submit your application. It does require sign-off of a licensed healthcare provider (thats where we come in ☺️)

Lightning VIP operates on a concierge model, which allows us to provide highly personalized and comprehensive care to our patients. This model does not typically involve direct billing to insurance companies. Instead, we focus on offering a range of membership options and flexible payment plans to best suit our patients' needs. We encourage you to check with your insurance provider to understand what out-of-network benefits may be available for reimbursement of our services. For more detailed information, please contact our office directly.

Lightning VIP is by appointment only and has varying availability, Monday - Saturday. Initial (first time) consults take place EXCLUSIVELY Monday - Thursday (No Fridays or Saturdays).

Your membership does not include 24/7 access. However, it does include quick access. Dr. Lightning monitors the patient line regularly throughout the day. If you are having an emergency, please proceed to ER. Otherwise, general response time is usually within 6 - 8 hours.

Lightning VIP does not offer refunds. However, we do understand that circumstances change. This is why we have made membership based on a quarterly renewal period (every 3 months) rather than an annual commitment. If you no longer wish to be a member of Lightning VIP, remember to cancel your membership before the subscription renews. CANCELLATION REQUESTS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING (E-MAIL) AT LEAST 7 DAYS PRIOR TO THE NEXT PAYMENT DUE DATE. **Please note: If you join Lightning VIP for access to our weight loss management program, please book a phone consultation to ensure you fit all the qualifications for this program. Purchasing a membership before ensuring you qualify for treatment will result in forfeiture of your membership fee. If, based on medical history or laboratory values, it is determined that you are not a candidate for semaglutide, a membership fee refund will not be issued. This is because the initial membership payment pays for the cost of the labs and administrative time to create your new patient account.

If you have specific questions about pricing prior to joining, please send us an e-mail at support@lightningvip.com or book a phone consultation (on the 'Book Appointment' page) so that we may answer any questions that you have. The answers to most common questions can be found under the FAQs section and on the Become a Member page. Our pricing is publicly posted.

At Lightning VIP, we want to respect your time. This is why we have implemented a No Call/No Show/Late Arrival policy. Anyone arriving 9 minutes or more after their scheduled appointment will be asked to reschedule. This is to ensure that the rest of the scheduled patients for the day are seen in a timely fashion, as close to their scheduled appointment time as possible. Lightning VIP has a low tolerance policy on No Call/No Shows. As a small business, our staff members flex their personal lives and daily schedules around the needs of the patients. When patients do not show up to their scheduled appointment, this means staff has arrived to work for no purpose. Patients who are habitually late or who no call/no show will be discharged from our practice without a refund AND will be subject to our $250 early termination fee (if applicable). All patients will be given 1 warning prior to discharge, and will be required to sign off on this notice. Acknowledgement Form