Common Questions

At Essence Endocrinology, we strive to make your healthcare experience as convenient as possible by accepting a wide range of insurance plans. Below is a list that we currently accept. If your insurance is not listed or if you have any specific questions, please feel free to contact our office for confirmation.

Major Insurance Providers We Accept:

• Aetna

• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

• Cigna

• Culinary

• Medicare

• Medicaid (NV medicaid, Molina, BCBS)

• Prominence Health

• Tricare

No Insurance or Out-of-Network?

If you are uninsured or your insurance is out-of-network, we offer self-pay options. Please contact us to discuss the costs.

For further assistance or specific questions about insurance coverage, please reach out to our billing department. We're here to help ensure your care is covered and as stress-free as possible!

When visiting our endocrinology office for the first time, it's important to come prepared so that we can provide you with the best care possible. Please register for your patient portal prior to your visit and upload your documents. Here's a checklist to ensure your visit goes smoothly:

1. Photo ID
   A government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license or passport) is required for patient identification purposes.

2. Insurance Card(s)
   Please bring your current health insurance card(s). We will use this information to verify coverage and, if needed, obtain prior authorizations for treatments or medications.

3. Referral Documents
   If your primary care provider or another specialist referred you, please bring any referral forms or documents they may have provided.

4. Medical Records
   To help us understand your medical history, bring any relevant medical records. This is especially important if you have been treated by other specialists for endocrine issues like diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal problems, or hormone imbalances; including:

   • Previous lab results

   • Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasounds, MRIs)

   • Test results related to your thyroid, diabetes, or other endocrine conditions

   • Any notes from your referring doctor

5. List of Current Medications
   Bring a complete list of all medications you're currently taking, including dosages and frequency. Knowing your medication history helps us better assess your treatment options. This includes:

   • Prescription medications

   • Over-the-counter drugs

   • Vitamins and supplements 

6. Family Medical History
   Endocrine conditions, like diabetes and thyroid disorders, can sometimes run in families. If possible, bring information about any family members who have experienced similar health issues.

7. Questions or Concerns
   Make a list of any questions or concerns you have about your symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment options. We encourage you to ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable and informed.

8. Forms to Fill Out
   To save time, you can download and complete new patient forms from our website in advance. If you prefer, you can fill them out in the office before your appointment.

9. Patients with Diabetes Mellitus please bring the following:

• Blood Sugar Log
  If you're coming for diabetes management, it’s helpful to bring a log of your recent blood sugar readings.

• Device Data
  If you use any medical devices like a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or insulin pump, bring the data or device with you.

By bringing these essential items, you help ensure that we have all the information we need to provide you with the best possible care. We look forward to meeting you!

Please be advised, if your insurance plan requires financial participation from you, be prepared to make the payment at the time of your visit. We accept various forms of payment.

Yes, you can absolutely provide your previous medical notes and required documents before your visit! Submitting this information ahead of time allows our endocrinologist to review your medical history and prepare for your appointment, ensuring a more efficient and personalized visit. Here’s how you can send us your documents:

How to Submit Your Documents:

1. Online Patient Portal
   If you’re already registered with our office, you can upload your documents directly through our secure online patient portal. This is the fastest and most secure way to submit your records.

2. Fax
   You may also fax your documents to 702-637-4124. Please include your name, appointment date, and any relevant details to help us match the documents to your file.

3. Mail or Drop-off
   If you prefer, you can mail or drop off copies of your records at our office ahead of your appointment. Please send them to:
   Essence Endocrinology |  5775 S Fort Apache Rd, Suite 120 |  Las Vegas NV, 89148

Recommended Documents to Provide:

• Lab Results: Blood work related to thyroid, diabetes, or other endocrine conditions.

• Imaging Studies: Any ultrasounds, MRIs, or other scans.

• Referral Letters: If you were referred by another healthcare provider, please send us their notes.

• Medication List: A current list of medications you are taking, including dosages.

• Medical History: Any notes from other specialists or prior visits that relate to your endocrine health.

• Photo ID

• Insurance Cards

By sending these documents in advance, we can make your visit more focused on discussing your treatment and answering your questions. 

Whether you need to fast before your blood work depends on the specific tests ordered. Some tests require fasting to ensure accurate results, while others do not. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your blood work:

Tests That Typically Require Fasting:

1. Fasting Blood Glucose
   Used to diagnose or monitor diabetes, this test measures your blood sugar after a period of fasting.

   • Fasting Duration: 8-12 hours (typically overnight)

2. Lipid Panel (Cholesterol Test)
   This test measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels to assess cardiovascular risk, especially in patients with diabetes or thyroid issues.

   • Fasting Duration: 8-12 hours

3. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
   A CMP evaluates kidney and liver function, electrolytes, and blood sugar levels. Fasting is essential for accurate glucose and liver enzyme measurements.

   • Fasting Duration: 8-12 hours

4. Insulin Levels
   This test evaluates insulin production, commonly used for diabetes or insulin resistance.

   • Fasting Duration: 8-12 hours

5. C-Peptide
   C-peptide levels help assess insulin production. This test is often done alongside fasting glucose and insulin levels for a more accurate diagnosis of diabetes or insulin-related disorders.

   • Fasting Duration: 8-12 hours

Tests That May Not Require Fasting:

1. Renal (Kidney) Panel
   Evaluates kidney function by measuring electrolytes, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine. Fasting may be necessary if other tests, such as blood glucose, are also being measured.

2. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
   Evaluates your red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets. No fasting is needed.

3. TSH

4. Free T4

5. Free T3

Unsure About Fasting?

If you're unsure whether fasting is required for your tests, a simple way to ensure accuracy is to complete your labs at 8 AM following an overnight fast. This typically covers any fasting requirements, allowing for accurate results across a wide range of tests.

How to Fast Properly:

If fasting is required for your blood work:

• Do not eat or drink anything except water for 8-12 hours before your test.

• Water is allowed and encouraged to stay hydrated, but avoid coffee, tea, or any beverages.

• Medications: Continue taking your medications unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Special Considerations:

• If you have diabetes or are on medications that affect your blood sugar, please ask your doctor for specific instructions on how to manage your medications while fasting.

By following these fasting guidelines, you help ensure accurate results for your tests. If you have any further questions or concerns regarding fasting or your upcoming appointment, feel free to reach out to our office for assistance. We're here to help!

No, fasting is not required for a 24-hour urine collection. You can eat and drink as usual unless your doctor provides specific dietary instructions. However, it is important to avoid certain foods or medications that may interfere with the test results. Always follow any additional guidelines provided by your endocrinologist.

During the 24-hour urine collection, you should maintain your normal fluid intake. It’s important to drink water as you typically would to ensure the test accurately reflects your usual kidney function and hormone levels. Avoid excessive drinking, as overhydration can dilute the sample, but also don’t limit your fluids unless instructed by your doctor.

Special Instructions:

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These can affect hormone levels and interfere with the test results.

• Follow any specific instructions: Your doctor may advise avoiding certain foods or medications that could impact hormone measurements, such as cortisol or catecholamines.

The frequency of your visits to the endocrinologist depends on your specific condition, how well it's being managed, and whether any changes in treatment are needed. Here are some general guidelines based on common endocrine conditions:

Diabetes

• Well-controlled diabetes: Every 3 to 4 months for routine check-ups and lab work.

• Uncontrolled or newly diagnosed diabetes: You may need to see your endocrinologist more frequently, such as every 1 to 3 months, until your blood sugar levels are stable.

Thyroid Conditions (e.g., Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism)

• Stable thyroid function: Every 6 months to monitor hormone levels and medication.

• Medication adjustments: If you're starting or changing thyroid medications, follow-up visits may be scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks to fine-tune the dosage.

Osteoporosis

• Stable bone density: Every 6 months unless changes in treatment are needed or new symptoms arise.

• After starting new treatments: More frequent visits (every 2-6 months) may be recommended initially.

Adrenal or Pituitary Disorders

• These complex conditions often require individualized follow-up plans, ranging from every 3 to 6 monthsdepending on the stability of hormone levels and response to treatment.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• If your condition is well-managed, visits may be scheduled every 6 to 12 months to monitor symptoms and overall health, especially if medications like metformin are being used.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

• If you are undergoing HRT (for menopause or other hormonal imbalances), visits may be needed every 6 months to adjust hormone levels and ensure treatment effectiveness.

Special Situations

• If new symptoms arise: Schedule a visit as soon as possible to address any sudden changes in your condition.

• New diagnosis or starting treatment: More frequent visits may be required to monitor your initial response to treatment.

General Recommendation:

For most patients with stable endocrine conditions, seeing your endocrinologist every 6 to 12 months is typical for routine follow-ups and lab work.