Patient Resources
FAQs
FAQs about Appointments
I’ve never been to your practice before. Are you accepting new patients?
Yes! With 28 providers, we always able to accommodate new patients. Take a look at our list of providers and locations, and let us know who you would like to see and which office is most convenient for you. You can schedule your appointment by calling us at 804-897-2100 or by requesting an appointment online.
I’m experiencing a problem. How long will it be before I can see a doctor?
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please dial 911 or go to the closest hospital. If you are pregnant and are experiencing a serious but non-life-threatening situation, such as a sudden illness or injury, please call to discuss your condition with one of our nurses (the numbers are listed below). After hours, call our office and leave a message with the answering service. Our on-call staff physician will return your call promptly.
If you are a gynecological patient experiencing a serious but non-life-threatening situation, such as sudden illness, injury, or complications related to a recent surgery, please call the office for immediate attention (the numbers are listed below). After hours, you may leave a message with the answering service. You will receive a prompt return call from our on-call staff physician.
Depending on the problem you are experiencing, we can get you into our office for a same-day appointment.
What happens if I can’t make a scheduled appointment?
If you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment, please contact our office at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment time to reschedule. If you do not notify us prior to missing a scheduled appointment, you will be considered a “no-show” patient and a $25 charge will be added to your account. New appointments cannot be scheduled until this charge is paid in full.
Am I allowed to switch providers?
Of course! Many practices won’t allow you to switch providers, but, at VPFW, you’re welcome to see any provider you’d like. We want to have a lasting partnership with you and understand that having a great relationship and connection with your provider is a key part of this.
FAQs about Birth Control Pills
How do I start taking the pill?
Begin the pill pack on the first SUNDAY or FRIDAY after your next period starts, even if you are still bleeding. Take one pill each day and use back up contraception (condoms) for the first month. The last week of the pill pack has a pill that is a different color that is usually when you will start your period. At the end of the pack start the new pack of pills even if you are still bleeding.
Should I take my pill at a particular time of day?
You should take one pill each day, at the same time. Select a time that is easy for you to remember, for example when you brush your teeth or before going to sleep. Missed pills may not only increase the risk of pregnancy but may also increase your chance of experiencing side effects, such as bleeding between periods. If the pill is upsetting your stomach, take it before bedtime with a small snack.
What if I miss a pill?
If you miss one pill take it as soon as you remember and resume your normal schedule. If you miss two pills take one every twelve hours until you catch up and you should use back up birth control (condoms) for that cycle or consider emergency contraception (Plan B) if you are sexually active.
Are there risks with taking birth control pills?
Most side effects of the pill are not serious and those that are, occur infrequently. Serious risks, which can be life threatening, include blood clots, stroke and heart attacks and are increased if you smoke cigarettes. Cigarette smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular side effects, especially if you are over 35. You are advised not to smoke. Some women should not use the pill, including women who have blood clots, certain cancers, a history of heart attack or stroke, as well as those who are or may be pregnant.
What if I am having problems with my pill or bleeding between periods?
Most side effects, including acne and nausea, will improve within the first 3 months of use. Most women who have irregular bleeding during their first months on a birth control pill won’t do so by the third month. But if you have persistent spotting or irregular bleeding keep a record of the days you have bleeding and contact us. After 3 cycles, if you are still having problems, please contact us.
How does the pill affect sexually transmitted diseases?
Birth control pills do not protect against HIV or sexually transmitted diseases. You should use condoms every time you have intercourse to reduce the chance of a sexually transmitted disease.
Besides preventing pregnancy, are there other benefits to taking birth control pills?
On birth control pills your periods should be more regular and your flow lighter. They should help with menstrual cramps and may help with acne. Women who use the pill are also less likely to develop cysts on their ovaries.
FAQs for Obstetrical Patients
How are my estimated costs for obstetric care and delivery calculated?
The estimated costs for obstetric care and delivery are an estimate of the total amount of your provider’s charges for routine pregnancy care, ultrasounds and your indicated coinsurance responsibility. Any additional tests or procedures and lab work are not included. The total of your deductible deposit, coinsurance responsibility and ultrasounds will be due before delivery.
When will VPFW bill my insurance for my obstetric care and delivery?
Routine prenatal visits and delivery will be filed together after your delivery, per our contract with your insurance company. Ultrasounds are billed as they occur.
Can VPFW answer questions I have regarding lab work or hospital services?
No. Lab work and hospital services are performed and billed separately from VPFW’s services. Please contact your lab provider or hospital directly with any questions or concerns regarding their services. The patient’s facility fee for the hospital is separate from the non-facility physician’s fee.
I have a FSA or HSA that I would like to use towards my obstetric care. What should I do?
Begin by contacting your employer’s HR department for a better explanation of your specific plan. Your HSA may be used for pre-payment, if there are funds available. Unfortunately, FSA’s may only be used after a claim has been filed, and cannot be used for pre-payment. We will collect pre-payment using another form of payment if you have a FSA. After the claim for your delivery is processed, it is the patient’s responsibility to call the billing office to bill your FSA and refund the pre-payment.
What if my insurance policy renews or changes during my pregnancy?
If your policy renews or changes during your pregnancy, your deductible may need to be met twice depending on the renewal date. Please be aware of your policy renewal date and plan accordingly. If your insurance changes, you are responsible for notifying VPFW immediately and we will revise your OB payment agreement. You are still responsible for paying total estimated costs.
Will I be receiving monthly statements throughout my pregnancy?
Yes. After setting up your payment plan, you will use these statements primarily to track your automated payments. If you have extra services outside of the OB Payment Agreement they will also be on the statement, and you can make payment arrangements as necessary.