Frequently Asked Questions

 What is an Endocrinologist?

An Endocrinologist is a physician who has trained in Internal Medicine and then continues training in the subspecialty of Endocrinology. Endocrinologists specialize in diseases which affect the hormone secreting glands, which include the insulin secreting portion of the pancreas; thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands. They also specialize in Metabolic Bone disease, such as Osteoporosis.  Our Endocrinologists see patients age 13 and older with endocrine disorders.

How do I pronounce Dr. Donepudi’s name?

Dah na poo dee. English is Dr. Donepudi’s first and only language.

How do I make a new patient appointment with your office?

Our office sees new patients by referral only.  Contact your primary physician if you feel you should see an Endocrinologist.  Your primary physician can discuss this with you, review labs and contact us if he/she sees the need for a consultation.  They will furnish our office with your medical records and lab results which will aid in our consultation.

What should I expect at my first visit?

The first time you come to our office you will meet with one of our Endocrinologists to review the records from your referring physician and to discuss your endocrine system.  This consultation with the Endocrinologist will normally last 40 minutes to one hour.  You may have labs drawn at the close of the visit, but they will not be fasting.  If the Endocrinologist wishes to have fasting labs drawn we will have you return for another visit when you come fasting.

With which insurance companies are you contracted?

 We are network providers for the following carriers:

 

We are also contracted with the following preferred provider networks who price claims for other carriers

DirectNet	Medcost

If we are not network providers for your insurance plan please contact us about financial arrangements.

How do I get a refill on a prescription?

We ask that all prescription requests be done at your office visit.  If you need a prescription outside of an office visit there will be a $10 charge.  To request this prescription call (828) 322-7338 ext. 181.  Please give us the patient name and date of birth and phone number.  If someone other than the patient is calling, please leave your name.  We will need the name of the medication and the dosage, as well as the name and phone number of your pharmacy.  Please allow 48 hours for the processing of the prescription.