Answers to some of my patients’ most frequently asked questions.
Why is Searchlight ‘out of network’ with health insurers?
As an ‘out of network’ provider, I can offer you the flexible and independent approach to psychiatric treatment that you deserve, with no restrictions on the number and types of treatments necessary to help you feel better. You may still use your insurance to pay for any medications I prescribe.
If your insurance includes an ‘out of network’ benefit, I will provide you with all the information required to get reimbursed for sessions.
If you have one, your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) can also be used to pay for your treatment.
What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
A psychiatrist is a physician, or MD, who has attended medical school, completed a 4-year residency in psychiatry and has trained in both hospital and clinical settings in the use of psychiatric medications and psychotherapy. Psychologists, who complete their PhD or PsyD training, are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medications.
How does Searchlight’s video conferencing work? Is it difficult to set up?
Before you begin treatment, I will provide you with simple instructions on how to register and open a private patient care portal. Within that portal, you will find a link that launches Searchlight’s two-way video meeting application. The portal also includes appointment reminders, a secure messaging system, and a place to securely store the credit card information you’ll use for payment.
Dr. Niemiec, how do you pronounce your last name?
Thanks for asking! It’s pronounced ‘nee-mik’.