Patient FAQ
At St. Hope, we always strive to make patients feel comfortable and well-informed. Below is a list of our most frequently asked questions. However, if you don’t see what you’re looking for, or if you feel like you need additional information, please do let us know. Our priority is to answer all of your questions as we provide you with quality care.
How do I qualify to become a St. Hope Foundation patient?
There are no restrictions or eligibility requirements to receive care at The St. Hope Foundation Health Centers. We provide care to anyone, regardless of income, residency status, employment, health insurance coverage or ability to pay for services. You do not have to be a resident of any specific city, county, or area to access our services.
How long do I have to pay my bill?
Payment is due upon receipt of statement. You must contact the billing department at 713.778.1300 upon the receipt of your first statement to discuss the available options for patient agreements.
What is the difference in “Account Balance” and “Patient Responsibility” on patient billing statements?
Account Balance is the total charges of the account. Patient Responsibility is the amount due by the guarantor/patient at the time the statement is received.
What do I need to do if my insurance coverage changes?
Contact The St. Hope Foundation Health Center you attend. You can provide the updated information via phone, email, or regular mail. Also, you may visit any The St. Hope Foundation location and provide a copy of the new insurance. Or you may call the Billing Department at 713.778.1300.
What does “Coordination of Benefits” mean?
A person may have insurance coverage by more than one insurance carrier. It is important for the patient to coordinate with all carriers to establish primary payer coverage.
Do I need to change my PCP (primary care provider) to St. Hope Foundation on my insurance plan?
Many health insurance plans require you to indicate a primary care provider. In order for The St. Hope Foundation providers to render care payable by your insurance, we request you establish St. Hope Foundation as your PCP.
What if I need to speak to someone after regular business hours?
If you have a medical issue after hours, please contact The St. Hope Foundation Health Center you attend. All health centers have 24 hour answering services to relay your messages to the on-call medical staff.
What should I do if I need to access medical history and information after hours?
All The St. Hope Foundation patients are oriented on the patient portal. The patient portal allows the patient to immediately view the medical history, prescribed medications, appointment history, diagnoses, send secure messages to the medical team, and schedule appointments online.
Can I schedule my appointment online?
Yes, with a simple click on our website. Go to “Schedule An Appointment.”
Can I access only one of the services or do I have to use all The St. Hope Foundation services?
Yes, you can access any specific service you desire. As an example, if you only want dental services at this time, your request will be honored. The good news is you will not have to complete a new application if you decide to use another service line of The St. Hope Foundation.
If I’m not a St. Hope patient, can I access your pharmacy for prescriptions?
No. Our specialty pharmacy offers wholesale discounts to the St. Hope Foundation patients only. Federal compliance rules on 340B regulation state that we can only serve patients that meet the covered entity requirements. You would have to be a patient of The St. Hope Foundation. The St. Hope Foundation is a Class A pharmacy.
