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St. Paul Heart Clinic has announced that its physicians will be integrated as employed cardiologists at Allina Hospitals & Clinics and HealthEast Care System, effective January 1, 2011. At that time, St. Paul Heart Clinic will formally dissolve.
Additional information in the form of questions and answers regarding the transition to Allina and HealthEast is provided below and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Q: What is happening to St. Paul Heart Clinic?
A: After months of discussions, Allina Hospitals and HealthEast have reached an agreement to integrate St. Paul Heart Clinic into the two health care systems. This integration will take effect January 1, 2011. Q: What will the new cardiology groups be called?
A: United Heart and Vascular Clinic
A: HealthEast Heart Care (pending final approval)
Q: Will there be changes for existing patients?
A: For many patients, this will be a seamless transition as they are already receiving much of their heart care from Allina and HealthEast. Patients’ choices will be respected and honored. For patients who wish to switch physicians or health care systems for any reason, we are committed to a patient-centered transition. You may want to check with your insurance company prior to changing systems.
Q. Can I stay with my doctor?
A: Yes, you are encouraged to follow your doctor for ongoing care to their new healthcare system. You may want to check with your insurance company to make sure that the system where your doctor will be is in your network. Q. I can’t follow my doctor to United/Healtheast, how do I pick a new doctor?
A: You can visit our website (www.stphc.com) to learn more about all of our cardiologists. You may also want to discuss this decision with your primary care provider.
Q: Can I stay with my cardiologist in one system, but see my specialist (e.g. Electrophysiologist) in the other system?
A: Yes, this is possible. You will need to check with your health insurance; however, the physicians will provide the care you need in either or both systems.
Q: Where is my doctor’s new office?
A: The Allina cardiologists will remain in the current building at 225 N. Smith Avenue and at Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater.
The HealthEast cardiologists will have offices in our current Maplewood location at 1600 St. John’s Blvd; additionally, they will be in new space at St. Joseph’s Hospital, 45 West 10th Street, St. Paul.
Q: Is my doctor still going to see patients in Apple Valley, Baldwin, Farmington, Forest Lake, Hastings, River Falls and Somerset?
A: The cardiologists are committed to continuing service in these communities. However, there may be different physicians visiting some Outreach sites. Please call back in a few weeks for more information concerning which cardiologists will be visiting in your area. Q: Can I still do my testing at the DT or MW office?
A: All cardiology testing services will be available in both systems and offices. Discuss with your cardiologist which location may be best for you.
Q: Can I still do my testing, INRs, or device clinic, in the United system – but follow-up with my doctor in the Healtheast system? A: In order to support your healthcare, it is recommended that you continue this testing in the same system as your doctor. Q: My doctor ordered a CT/MR for next year, but I am a Healtheast patient – what do I do?
A: Your physician will work out a plan for your care. Please call and speak to your physician’s nurse closer to the expected testing date.
Q: Does my primary care doctor know about this change?
A: Yes, we have sent a letter informing primary care doctors/providers about this change.
Q: Can you schedule an appointment for me next year? A: At this time, we are unable to schedule visits for 2011. Allina / Healtheast are currently developing the systems to support the scheduling process.
Q: Will you be calling me to schedule an appointment when it is due? A: Yes, we will continue to call you using the same system we have always used. Of course, please feel free to call us as your appointment date approaches. Q: Will my insurance cover my visits in the new system?
A: You will need to contact your insurance company and inquire.
Q: How will I do my TTM or remote device check next year? A: For remote TTMs and device checks, the device staff from Allina and HealthEast will contact you as always.
Q: Can I have my pacemaker checked at either site?
A: Yes, you will be able to continue your care with the device clinic at all sites. Q: How do I get my medical records transferred to the new system?
A: Your medical records will be automatically sent to the appropriate site for continuation of your care after January 1, 2011. If you need a copy of your records prior to January 1, 2011, please call 651-726-7092. Q: Where do I call for refills next year? A: As always, you are to contact your pharmacy for your refill and they will fax the request to us. Your pharmacy will be given the new number based on where your physician will be practicing. Q: Will the clinic hours remain the same? A: Yes Q: Can I still participate in research studies?
A: Yes
Q: Will I still get to work with my Research Coordinator/Nurse?
A: Most likely, but in some cases you may be assigned to work with a different research nurse. However, you will continue to receive the same level of quality care.
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