NOTICE                       

San Diego Family Dermatology (SDFD) requires a credit card on file for all insurances with out of pocket expenses

At this time, SDFD requests your credit card information (this may be a health spending account card, credit card, debit card) and authorization to be placed on file. This preauthorization allows SDFD to collect balances due after your insurance has processed today’s charges (only if applicable). No charges will be applied unless your insurance plan indicates that you are responsible under the guidelines of your coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why? Thank you for asking. Due to rising costs and decreasing reimbursements we need to ensure our physicians are paid for services rendered. Just as you would pay your hairstylist, veterinarian, dentist, etc, it is equally important to pay for your medical services.  

But I always pay my bills. We very much appreciate that you do. Unfortunately, with the complicated details of health insurance, many patients feel that if they pay for insurance they do not have to pay physicians directly; however they have deductibles, coinsurance and co-pays that are required.

How can I know what I will owe? If you know you have a high deductible and most of the cost of the visit will come out of pocket, you can ask the doctor before they perform any procedures what the estimated cost would be. Here is a table of common procedures and estimated costs based on Medicare rates. (Please note this is not a guarantee of what your insurance negotiated rates.)

How will I know I was charged? You will receive an email directly from our credit card processor AND an explanation of benefits from SDFD.

What if I have questions about my bill? Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (this is an unencrypted email) or text (855) 487-1609 and ask for a biller to call or text you.

Which insurances require CCOF? Any insurance that has an out of pocket expense for a co-pay, deductible, coinsurance.

What if I can’t afford my bill? We are always happy to set up a payment plan. We will never charge more than $200 per month without first speaking to you.

Is my credit card data secure? We use a credit card processor for processing and saving the cards. Our credit card processor protects its systems with industry-leading technology and security controls, including:

• Performing data encryption within the card reader at the moment of swipe.
• Using software that is developed based on industry-standard security best practices.
• Using servers that are monitored around the clock by dedicated security staff.
• Ensuring employees act in accordance with security policies designed to keep your data safe.

Can your staff see my credit card details?  Absolutely not. 

What if I refuse to leave my credit card on file? We will allow you to pay $192 upfront before your visit. After your insurance processes your claim you will be refunded any difference. If you pay by cash, we will refund by check. If you pay by credit card, we will refund by credit card.

Do you charge for no-shows?  We do not charge a no-show fee if you miss a general dermatology appointment; however after missing 3, you may lose the privilege of scheduling in advance and will need to call for same day cancellations only. Last minute surgery and patch testing cancellations may incur a $50 fee.

What if I am not happy with this new policy?  We are really sorry to hear that. We really appreciate having you as a patient and caring for you to the best of our ability; however, we understand if you feel you need to move to a different practice. Please note, almost every Dermatology practice in San Diego has a credit card on file policy in place.