FAQs
We’ve gathered some of your most-asked questions. If you don’t see what you’re interested below, just shoot us an email.
WHAT DO DERMATOLOGISTS DO EXACTLY?
Dermatologists are medical doctors with special training that also allows them to diagnose and treat conditions and diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists diagnose and treat everything from skin cancers, moles, and warts, to acne, dry skin, and psoriasis. Additionally, they are surgeons who are able to perform certain types of surgery to prevent and control disease, as well as cosmetic procedures to improve how skin looks.
HOW MUCH ARE YOUR OFFICE VISITS?
It varies depending on the complexity of your visit. New patient office visits start at $150 (plus any additional services you may require). Return office visits range from $85 – 150 (plus any additional services you may require).
HOW LONG WILL MY FIRST APPOINTMENT TAKE?
We advise patients to plan on their visit to take 30 – 60 minutes, with the exception of surgical procedures, which may take longer depending on the procedure. Actual time will depend on the complexity of your skin issue/procedure. We also prefer that you arrive about 15 minutes ahead of your appointment to complete any paperwork that may be necessary.
SHOULD I BRING MY MEDICATIONS WITH ME?
Please bring a list of all medications and supplements you currently take, as well as any to which you are allergic.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I SEE A DERMATOLOGIST?
Most people don’t see a dermatologist until they have a skin condition or desire a cosmetic procedure. In truth, you should visit your dermatologist at least once a year for a thorough skin examination. If you develop any conditions between yearly visits, you should contact your dermatologist immediately.
WHAT TYPES OF INSURANCE DO YOU ACCEPT?
We believe that we can best serve our patients by not allowing insurance companies to dictate our treatments. Therefore, we made the conscious decision many years ago not to contract with insurance companies, although we do courtesy file your visit for you. This tells your insurance company to reimburse you any money and not Dr. Clements.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET IN TO SEE DR. CLEMENTS?
We work very hard to get our patients in to see the doctor as quickly as possible. However, we try to accommodate all true emergencies.
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR GETTING SKIN CANCER?
There are a number of different risk factors. If you have any of the following, you may want to get checked or take extra caution:
- Fair skin that easily freckles or burns, or is hyper-sensitive after being in the sun
- Eyes that are blue or green, or hair that is blonde or red
- Frequent exposure to the sun
- Sunburns, especially when you were young
- A family history of skin cancer
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE SKIN CANCER?
The only way to know for sure is to see a dermatologist. See one immediately if you have moles or areas on your skin that change shape or change color, grow, ooze blood or fluid, crust or clot over, or if you have a sore that doesn’t heal after a couple of weeks. If your doctor determines it suspicious, she’ll most likely remove part or all of the lesion in a biopsy for microscopic examination. If it turns out to be cancerous, she will most likely advise additional treatment to make sure all the cancerous cells have been removed.
IS THERE A CHARGE FOR A COSMETIC CONSULTATION?
Yes, there is a charge. The time spent with the doctor is time spent tailor-making a plan for your personal treatment. Histories are taken, options are presented and then discussed. Dr. Clements gives you an estimate of charges at that time.
DOES DR. CLEMENTS OFFER COSMETIC TREATMENT "PACKAGES?"
Dr. Clements prices her procedures per procedure. We believe that this actually saves the patient money over “packaged” services.