Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What is "Family Medicine"?
Family Medicine is a recognized medical specialty which qualifies a doctor to see patients of all ages, from newborn children to seniors. We know that many diseases and conditions "run in the family" or are otherwise influenced by lifestyle and family behaviors. By understanding your family's history and genetics, we are best able to diagnose and treat you, both for preventive care as well as acute care.
What does "Board Certified" mean?
Both Dr. Calton and Dr. Fu are Board Certified. Certification is provided by the American Academy of Family Medicine. Following four years of medical school, the doctor must perform at least three years in a Board approved residency program. The doctor then must pass the Family Medicine Board Examination to be Board Certified. To maintain their level of competency and Board Certification, family medicine doctors must re-certify and take an updated examination every seven years.
Do you see both men and women?
Absolutely.
Do you see children?
Absolutely, from newborns to teenagers.
Do you see patients by appointment?
We only see patients by appointment, and we make a concerted effort to see our patients on schedule.
What are your office hours?
We see patients by appointment, Monday through Friday, from 8:15 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. with the last scheduled appointment at 4:30 P.M.
What about after-hours telephone calls?
For emergencies, you can reach one of our doctors after hours through our 24 hour answering service. If you have been injured or need to see someone immediately, we will refer you appropriately to the hospital or to one of the urgent care facilities we typically recommend.
If your situation or question is not urgent, please call us during normal business hours.
Do you take insurance?
We see patients with a wide variety of insurance coverage. See the tab on Insurance for further details.
Do you accept Medicare patients?
We do accept Medicare patients. We, however, do not accept assignment of your Medicare benefits. Medicare patients will be asked to pay in full for their services at the time of service. We will then submit your claim to Medicare for you electronically, and Medicare will reimburse you directly for the Medicare benefits which are due.
Are you on any HMO panels?
No.
How are lab tests handled?
As a service to our patients, we often will draw the blood in our office. We then send the specimen to an outside laboratory for processing. Once the results are back, we call you with the results.
What if I need a referral to a specialist?
As primary care doctors, we can help determine when a specialist is necessary. We have excellent relationships with a wide variety of specialists in Southern Orange County and can help you get an appointment when needed.
How much experience do your doctors have?
Both of our primary doctors have substantial amounts of practice experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of conditions, illnesses, and injuries. Dr. Calton has been practicing for more than 25 years. Dr. Fu has been practicing for almost 10 years.
What hospital do you recommend?
There are several good hospitals in South Orange County. Both of our doctors are on staff at Mission Hospital and Regional Medical Center in Mission Viejo, California.