Frequently asked questions
It is natural to have questions first.
Choosing a new rheumatologist is an important decision, and it is natural to have questions before the first appointment. Below are the answers patients ask for most — about the practice, the direct care model, and what to expect. If your question is not here, the office is happy to help.
About the practice
What is Wellness Rheum?
A direct care rheumatology practice founded by Dr. Naureen Alim, for the diagnosis, treatment and long-term management of autoimmune and rheumatologic conditions through personalized, relationship-centered care.
What makes it different from a traditional practice?
The practice is deliberately designed for more time with your physician, greater accessibility, individualized treatment plans, and continuing support through your healthcare journey.
What is direct care medicine?
Direct care is a direct-pay model that does not bill your insurance. That transparency is what makes longer appointments, better communication and direct access to your physician possible.
Is direct care right for me?
If you are looking for a physician who takes the time to understand your concerns, values collaboration, and provides personalized care, Wellness Rheum may be a good fit. The model can also suit patients facing months-long waits for an appointment, or wanting a second opinion.
Becoming a patient
How do I request an appointment?
Request a consultation through this website, or contact the office directly. The team will guide you through the next steps.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required to request an appointment. Patients may self-refer and book directly. Please contact the office if you are unsure.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes — the practice is currently welcoming new patients. At this time it does not accept patients insured through Medicare. Former established patients are welcome to contact the office about future care, and may be seen on a limited, case-by-case basis as capacity permits.
What should I expect at the first visit?
A comprehensive review of your medical history, symptoms, previous testing, medications and health goals. Dr. Alim will take the time to answer your questions and discuss what she recommends for your care.
How long is the first appointment?
Appointment lengths vary with what you need. Because the practice follows a direct care model, visits are built to allow enough time for a meaningful conversation and a thorough evaluation.
Conditions and care
What conditions do you treat?
Autoimmune and rheumatologic disease across its range: lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Sjögren’s disease, vasculitis, osteoporosis, gout, osteoarthritis, inflammatory muscle disease, and other connective tissue and complex autoimmune conditions.
Can you help if I do not have a diagnosis yet?
Yes. Many patients arrive while still searching for answers, and evaluation for symptoms suggestive of autoimmune disease is a substantial part of the practice.
Do you offer second opinions?
Yes. If you have recently received a diagnosis, or would like another perspective on your treatment plan, second-opinion consultations are available.
Will you coordinate with my other physicians?
Yes. Where appropriate, the practice works alongside your primary care physician and other specialists.
How quickly will I have a diagnosis?
Often not at the first visit. Rheumatologic diagnoses are built from patterns that accumulate over time, and the first appointment should end with a plan even when it cannot end with a name.
Treatment
Will I receive a personalized treatment plan?
Yes. Every treatment plan is individualized to your diagnosis, symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and goals.
Are treatment recommendations evidence-based?
Yes. Every recommendation is grounded in current medical evidence and clinical guidelines, then tailored to your particular needs.
Do you prescribe biologic medications?
Where it is clinically appropriate, Dr. Alim discusses all available treatment options, including biologic therapies, and helps you understand the benefits and risks of each.
Will I need laboratory testing?
Laboratory testing and imaging matter a great deal in autoimmune disease — for reaching a diagnosis, for monitoring the condition, and for judging whether a treatment is working. Whether they can be ordered at the visit itself depends on your location, your clinical situation and the type of visit.
Fees and billing
Do you accept insurance?
Direct care means you pay your physician directly rather than billing insurance. The model gives transparent pricing, longer visits, and care shaped by your needs rather than by insurance requirements. Contact the office to discuss fees, documentation, and whether you may request reimbursement from your insurer.
Is there a fee, and what does it cover?
Fees, pricing and the services included are reviewed with you during your consultation.
Are laboratory tests and imaging included?
Laboratory testing, imaging and outside services are typically billed separately where they apply.
Can I use my HSA or FSA?
Depending on your plan, a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) may be used for eligible medical expenses. We recommend confirming coverage with your plan administrator.
Communication
How do I reach the office between appointments?
Patients have access to communication options consistent with the direct care model. The details are discussed with you during onboarding.
How quickly can I expect a response?
The office aims to respond to patient inquiries as promptly as possible during normal business hours.
Do you offer virtual appointments?
Telemedicine availability depends on your clinical needs and the applicable regulations. Please contact the office for more information.
Prescriptions
Can I request prescription refills online?
You will receive information about refill procedures once your care is established.
Will my medications be monitored?
Yes. Medication effectiveness, side effects and laboratory monitoring are reviewed regularly as part of ongoing care.
Before your visit
What should I bring?
Photo identification, a medication list, previous medical records, recent laboratory results, imaging reports — and your questions written down.
Can I complete forms before my visit?
Yes. New patient forms are made available electronically before your appointment wherever possible.
Still have questions?
We are here to help. If your question was not answered here, contact the office and we will help you decide whether Wellness Rheum is the right fit for your care.