If I am a new patient, how long will it take to get an appointment?

We strive to schedule our new patient appointments within 1 week, though this is subject to your availability and may be up to 2 weeks.

Is Dr. Malek’s Office a weight loss clinic?

No. We are a full-service Primary Care Practice. While we offer medical weight management as part of comprehensive care, our core focus is preventive medicine, chronic disease management, and general medical care. 

Will I be charged for services that I didn’t receive?

Absolutely not. We only bill for services actually performed. All billing is fully documented and compliant with national guidelines and payer requirements. We encourage patients to request a copy of their visit summary or billing codes at any time. 

Do you accept my insurance?

We are contracted with most major insurance carriers. However, coverage varies by plan. We verify insurance benefits as a courtesy, but we strongly encourage patients to contact their insurance company directly to confirm coverage for primary care and preventive services. 

What happens if I don’t want a physical or wellness screening?

We respect your preferences, but please note: declining a preventive visit may affect your insurance coverage and our ability to fully manage your care. In some cases, this may limit your eligibility for certain services through our office. 

What if I need to speak with someone outside of business hours for an urgent issue?

For a life-threatening issue call 911 immediately. Otherwise, you can reach on the on-call phone at 812-484-8792‬.

Once I am an established patient, how long will it take to get an appointment when I am sick?

We do our absolute best to schedule all urgent/ sick patient appointments same day and at the most within 24 hours. You may also walk in for an urgent/ acute illness visit.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can schedule an appointment by calling our office staff at 812-402-3700, scheduling on our website or on your Patient Fusion account.

Why is it preferred to be seen for the first time in person?

An important component of establishing with a new medical practice is what we call the “objective findings”. This refers to what your provider observes or measures from your current physical presentation and provides a baseline for future visits.

Why 1-2 weeks?

New patient appointments take approximately 15-30 minutes longer than an established patient visit. We need to allow additional time on our schedule for these appointments.

Why am I required to do a preventive or wellness visit at my first appointment?

Your first visit is used to establish care with our office as your Primary Care Provider (PCP). Insurance companies and national medical guidelines (such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force) require a comprehensive preventive visit to meet annual wellness and quality measures. This helps us better coordinate your ongoing health needs.

Are there hidden fees?

No. We provide all financial policies in writing before your first visit and collect only your insurance copay, deductible, or coinsurance. You’ll be notified of any outstanding balance once your insurance processes your claim. 

Can I come just for weight loss shots or medications? 

No. As a primary care office, all patients must first complete a comprehensive preventive visit and establish care. Only then can we safely and compliantly discuss weight loss medications as part of a broader care plan. 

Who will I see at my visit?

You will be seen by a licensed nurse practitioner or physician who practices under Dr. Malek’s supervision. All providers follow the same evidence-based protocols for preventive and chronic care. 

What is considered an emergency?

When you are facing a serious or life-threatening medical situation that requires immediate attention. This includes situations such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe injuries, signs of stroke or heart attack, major bleeding, loss of consciousness, or any other condition where delay in treatment could result in serious harm or death.

​

In case of difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, life or limb injury, or signs of stroke or heart attack, remember to dial 911 and avoid driving to the Emergency Department.

What is considered an urgent issue?

When you have non-life-threatening medical issues that require prompt attention but are not severe enough to warrant a visit to the emergency room. This includes things like minor injuries, illnesses, infections, and other urgent health concerns that don't pose an immediate danger to life or limb.

Feel free to come in without an appointment between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays for your urgent care requirements.

​

If it's between 5:00 PM and 10:00 PM on weekdays, or 11:00 AM and 10:00 PM on weekends, you can access our telemedicine support. Just send an SMS to (812) 484 8792.

What do I need to bring to my first appointment?

It is mandatory by law that a new patient present with a photo ID. We cannot establish care unless we can verify your identity with this photo ID. You also need to bring your insurance card. Please note, if you fail to bring a photo ID and/or you fail to bring insurance information and your insurance cannot be verified, your appointment is subject to cancellation and rescheduling.

Where can I get a copy of the new patient paperwork?

We offer a variety of ways to obtain your new patient paperwork. You can come to the office to fill out the packet. You can call our office staff at 812-402-3700 to request a link to be sent to your mobile number. Additionally, you can click New Patient Packet Form through our Patient Resources - Form Section.