F.A.Q.’s
GENERAL
- What is Armur Medical?
Armur Medical is an online and in-person health care service staffed by board certified family physicians who will treat many of your medical conditions. All of our physicians specialize in Hormone Optimization for men and women and are certified in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Armur Medical treats varied conditions including family health, urgent care, men and women’s health, LGBTQ+, pain and multiple other areas.
- What is a personal online private doctor?
- A personal online doctor is a physician that is able to treat many medical concerns online through the use of video or telephone. Our physicians are Board Certified Family Physicians. These personal online doctors are physician’s that are committed to treating their patients with unparalleled commitment. Normally they only take a limited number of patients so they have more time to spend with each of them. They are available 24/7/365 to their patients when they need their medical expertise. This all helps to build a more personal, satisfying relationship with their doctor.
- How is this different from other online doctors?
- One main difference with Armur Medical is you will always have the same doctor. Just think, you will not have to explain your medical condition or what you struggle with medically over and over again. You will have a relationship with your doctor and he will know your history. This facilitates better care. Your costs are minimized because all you pay for is one membership and your immediate family is included in this rate. You save money immediately. You also have your doctors private cell number where he is available to you 24/7/365 in most cases.
- What does an Armur Medical Membership include?
Services include integrative exam services and health data services.
Integrative Exam Services:
* An Integrative exam is a routine comprehensive hormonal health-based pre-condition diagnostic evaluation and diagnosis physical exam, detached from medical condition or necessity, with follow-up abbreviated Integrative Exams.
* For Example, integrative exams for hormone optimization alternatives
Integrative Exams are not designed to constitute primary care.
They integrate the following:
- Optimizing health
- Hormone Optimization
- Improving energy and focus
- Assisting with pain management
- Promoting weight management via diet and nutrition-based goals
- Creating and guiding fitness and lifestyle goals
- Slowing down to the extent feasible the aging process and maintaining vitality
- Improving overall health awareness and equipping patient with enhanced health education.
Health Data Services:
- Designed to improve patient’s integrative exam-based electronic communication
Medical information stored and allow patients to retrieve information
- Who benefits most from a Membership?
- Anyone concerned with improving their health
- Men & women interested in optimizing their hormones ie testosterone and post-menopausal changes.
- An individual or family who has no insurance
- An Individual or family that only can afford a catastrophic Insurance policy.
- Any individual or family that is concerned about saving money
- Small business owners that cannot afford insurance for their employees.
- How do I become a member with Armur Medical?
You can find out more information on our Membership Page
Remember space is limited and we are limiting our members on a first come first served basis to allow more time with each patient.
- Do you take insurance?
Armur Medical is a membership or subscription-based insurance. This is a health care model that allows for patients to have extraordinary access and care for a monthly fee. We do not take 3rd party insurance however we do take medicare.
- Can I use my insurance?
Yes, you can submit your bill to your insurance for billing.
- What is membership cost of Armur Medical?
Most membership/subscription based medical companies are priced from $100/month upwards to $2500/month for the most elite services. We are happy to offer our complete services to individuals and their immediate families for only $99/month. There are no deductibles or co-pays that you ever have to pay unless you are part of Medicare. Membership models have been shown to reduce the number of ER visits and help reduce your medical costs as you are able to discuss your case with your board-certified physician any time. At Armur Medical we believe in bringing affordable healthcare to you when YOU need it.
- Can I use my HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account)?
- Yes! Your HSA/FSA have certain requirements for medical use but health related services are covered. Your HSA/FSA can be used. Different plans will have requirements so check with them to verify prior to using.
- What if I want to quit?
Simply notify us, it’s as easy as that.
- Do you send prescriptions in the mail?
- Prescriptions are sent to your local pharmacy or what ever pharmacy you choose. This makes it easy if you are traveling or on vacation. We also work with pharmacies that will provide a mail-order service. With the advent of many prescription savings services like GoodRx and SingleCare most times it is more affordable to pick your prescriptions up immediately at your local pharmacy.
- What do I do if I need Labs?
- Armur Medical has contracts with national labs like LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics to make your lab draws much easier. We simply order the labs and they will be sent directly to us when completed. We will then notify you, like your regular doctor does, because we are your regular doctor.
- Armur Medical has contracts with national labs like LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics to make your lab draws much easier. We simply order the labs and they will be sent directly to us when completed. We will then notify you, like your regular doctor does, because we are your regular doctor.
- Will I always have my same provider?
- When you enroll in Armur Medical you will always have your same physician. Studies show that when you know your doctor you feel more confident in your healthcare experience. Whether you are being seen for Urgent Care, Primary Care or for Bioidentical Hormones, knowing and having dealt with your physician previously only makes this process easier.
- When you enroll in Armur Medical you will always have your same physician. Studies show that when you know your doctor you feel more confident in your healthcare experience. Whether you are being seen for Urgent Care, Primary Care or for Bioidentical Hormones, knowing and having dealt with your physician previously only makes this process easier.
- How do I become a member of Armur Medical?
Simply enroll. Click HERE. You will be asked to schedule a time to talk to Armur Medical. You will then be asked to fill out your private, confidential medical history and other essential medical forms. It’s that easy.
- After I become a member of Armur Medical, can I contact them anytime?
YES! That’s what having a private physician is for. You will have our cell number and you can call for medical attention. We are here for you when YOU need healthcare. Membership/subscription direct medicine has been shown to reduce the number of ER visits and help reduce your cost as you have your Board Certified Physician that you can discuss your case with.
- Shouldn’t I see a doctor in person?
At Armur Medical we take your healthcare very seriously. There are times when you may need to see a physician in person. The vast majority of times it is not essential that you be seen in person. There are many conditions that we will be able to treat either online through video or over the phone. We will treat you effectively and quickly so you can get on with the rest of your day.
- How do I contact Armur Medical?
Once enrolled you simply call the number to talk to your private doctor.
- Can I enroll with Armur Medical if I have Medicare, Medicaid or other health insurance?
Yes you can. There are many types of health care coverage. Many people save money by having a lower cost high deductible catastrophic health care plan and supplement it with a membership-based coverage like Armur Medical. They can save large amounts of money, reduce visits to the emergency room and stay healthy. Armur Medical does take Medicare and is a Medicare compliant organization. We do not accept 3rd party insurance.
- I’m typically healthy, would it benefit me to become an Armur Medical Member?
- Today healthy people typically have a higher deductible catastrophic policy that saves them money. Coupling this type of high-deductible policy with a membership-based concierge type plan saves people up to thousands of dollars a year. Even 1 visit to urgent care or the emergency room can cost you in excess of $5,000. Having your own personal physician who can discuss your case, prescribe medication for you can save even a healthy person thousands of dollars.
- What is HRT?
HRT stands for Hormone Replacement Therapy. As men and women age it is normal for their production of hormones to decrease. For women, this is called menopause and is much more abrupt than for men. With men, this is called Andropause. HRT is simply the replacement of these “lost” hormones by way of medications.
- What is TRT?
TRT stands for Testosterone Replacement Therapy. TRT has become popular in recent years. Most men who optimize their testosterone levels have improved physical and mental aspects of their lives. Optimizing testosterone provides many benefits for both men and women. Many men experience increase in energy and vitality when starting TRT. Armur Medical only employs certified physicians in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).
- Are taking hormones safe for your health?
There are many studies in medical journals across all specialties indicating the safety and efficacy of hormone supplementation. Optimizing hormones replace hormone levels back to a person’s previous levels. This is safe and will benefit their overall well-being and health when they are administered in correct dosage and by a qualified certified physician. All hormones we prescribe are bioidentical ie have the same chemical structure as naturally occurring hormones in ones body.
- What hormones will I need to take?
Discussing your specific medical case along with your current signs and symptoms of hormone deficiency will determine what types of hormones you will need to take. You doctor will discuss your case and formulate a plan of action for you.
- Is TRT Expensive?
On the contrary, TRT is affordable for all levels of income. There are different types of testosterone and at many price ranges to ensure that all people can optimize their hormone levels.
- What type of Testosterone will you prescribe?
There are many forms of testosterone available to patients. Your physician will work with you to either prescribe injections, creams or patches. All of these are efficacious and will help optimize your hormones.
- Is all testosterone the same or are there differences?
There are different formulations of testosterone ie injections, creams, gels or patches but all testosterone.
- What are the benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
There are many benefits of HRT. Whether men or women the benefits are extraordinary. They include cardiovascular and heart healthy benefits. Hormones help with retaining and building lean body mass while reducing body fat. They can improve energy, cognition, sleep, libido, memory, mood, erections in men and help facilitate better sex. HRT will also help lower cholesterol, strengthen bones, improving glucose utilization, and improves menopausal symptoms.
- What is the process to start?
You can schedule a free consultation with an Armur Medical physican. Simply schedule it HERE
- I have had my hormones drawn previously; can I use them?
You may be able to use them however it is best to have your labs drawn at the same lab due to lab variations. Once you enroll with Armur Medical talk to your personal doctor about this. We work with many different labs and will find one that best suits you.
- How long does it take to notice any results from my therapy?
This varies from person to person. Each person is different and some will notice results quite quickly whereas others it may take a while.
- How many times a year will I need labs drawn.
Once your hormones are optimized you will only need labs once or twice per year.
- How long do I take hormones for?
As we age our bodies produce less hormones that must be replaced. If we are not producing them, we must replace them. This replacement is lifelong. Optimizing your hormones as you get older has been proven to be beneficial in your overall health and longevity.
- Do you use HCG or Estrogen Blockers?
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) and/or Clomid can be used for men who want to ensure fertility or to decrease the rate of testicular shrinking while on testosterone therapy. Estrogen blockers are not used or recommended. Research indicates that up to 50% of the benefit of testosterone optimization is the increase in estradiol. This helps men in most every area. Your private physician will explain this more fully to you.
- What If I want to still have children, can I use TRT?
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) and/or Clomid can be used for men who want to ensure fertility or to decrease the rate of testicular shrinking while on testosterone therapy. Even those HCG and Clomid are used they do not guarantee fertility.
- Will Testosterone help me lose weight?
Utilizing testosterone therapy coupled with a well-balanced health program will help you lose weight and build lean muscle.
- Can I get prostate cancer with testosterone replacement therapy?
Healthline indicates multiple studies including 2015 & 2016 studies found no relationship between a man’s testosterone level and his risk of developing prostate cancer. Other studies showed TRT doesn’t increase risk of prostate cancer or make it more severe in men who have previously been diagnosed.
- Can I get breast or uterine cancer with HRT?
Multiple studies indicate HRT is safe and efficacious when done properly. Estradiol/estrogen must always be balanced with progesterone to prevent any disease states. Your personal hormone physician will discuss this with you further.
- Will I lose hair when I take hormones?
Studies show approximately 1% of patients receiving HRT will lose some hair. This occurs as testosterone is changed into dihydrotestosterone which can be responsible for hair loss.
Men’s Health
Erectile Dysfunction
- What is ED?
ED stands for Erectile Dysfunction. ED is a medical condition where a man has difficulty getting or sustaining an erection that is adequate enough to able to have sexual intercourse. Men of all ages experience ED and most cases are treatable.
- How do I get my medication?
Simply call Armur Medical and talk to your private physician. They will discuss your case with you and treat you accordingly.
- What factors can predispose me to having ED?
There are many factors that can cause ED. The number one cause across all ages is stress and relationship problems. Other causes include:
-Not optimizing your hormone levels
-Diabetes
-High blood pressure
-Obesity
-Tobacco/alcohol and other substance abuse
-Neurological disorders, multiple sclerosis,
-Other medications, ie some high blood pressure, psychiatric medications
-Prior surgeries ie prostate, abdominal, rectal or bladder.
-Abnormal lipid/cholesterol levels
- What treatments are available for ED?
There are more treatments available for ED than just Viagra, Cialis and Levitra. There are supplements, injections, creams and mechanical devices that treat ED.
- How does Viagra and Cialis work?
These medications work by vasodilating blood vessels in the penis thereby increasing the amount of blood coming into the penis. This increase in blood flow results in more firm erections.
- Will ED medication help me last longer?
Some ED treatments can help you keep an erection longer. Your board-certified family physician is the best source of information and is willing to discuss these sensitive questions you may have.
- Are there any side effects with ED medications?
No medications are without side effects. ED medications can cause headaches, visual changes, nasal congestion or nosebleed. Some can also cause backaches and on rare occasions can cause prolonged erections. Your private physician will answer these questions for you.
- How long will I have to wait to get my prescription?
Your prescriptions will be sent to your local pharmacy immediately after talking with your online private doctor.
- Who should not take ED medication?
Most people are able to take ED medication. Those with severe cardiovascular disease and those taking a type of medication called “nitrates” should not take certain ED medications. There are other options for those people unable to take oral tablets. Talk to your Armur Physician about other options.
Premature Ejaculation
- What is premature ejaculation and how common is it?
Premature Ejaculation (PE) is a common occurrence and is characterized by ejaculating sooner during sexual intercourse than he or his partner would like. Those who suffer from PE become overstimulated and this overstimulation results in an ejaculation that occurs too quickly.
- How many men suffer from PE?
Premature Ejaculation (PE) is a condition that studies indicate up to 30-40% of men experience.
- What medical solutions are available for someone with premature ejaculation?
There are a number of options available for those who desire to prolong intimacy. There are manipulative techniques that have success rates. There are also multiple gels and creams that have excellent results. In addition to these, there are also oral medications that have been proven successful.
- How long does it take them to work?
Many of these medications and techniques work immediately. Some oral medications may take 2-3 weeks to have their full effect.
LGBTQ
- What is PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. PrEP is a medication that people who are at risk for contracting HIV use to decrease their risk of contracting HIV.
- What PrEP medications are available?
There are two medications approved for use as PrEP: They are Truvada and Descovy.
- Who should take PrEP?
Anyone who is at risk for contracting HIV except for people assigned female at birth. This infection can be the result of sex or injection drug use. It is also for heterosexual men who have had and continue to have multiple sexual partners with unprotected sex.
- How do I pay for PrEP?
Most insurance plans cover PrEP as do most state Medicaid programs. There are programs and assistance programs available to patients that pay for PrEP.
- Does PrEP cause side effects?
All medications have side effects to varying degrees. Some people may have side effects of diarrhea, nausea, headache, fatigue and stomach pain. These typically diminish over time.
- How effective is PrEP?
According to the CDC website, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by 99% when taken as prescribed. It reduces risk of getting HIV through IV drug use by 74% when taken as prescribed.
- What do I have to do to take PrEP?
You will initially have to take an HIV test to ensure that you are HIV negative. After that you can be prescribed one of the PrEP medications. You will need to be tested every 3 months to make sure you are HIV negative.
- Do I need to go into a clinic to start PrEP?
No, you will need to visit a lab to get an HIV test. After that, once Armur Medical gets your HIV results we will be able to prescribe your PrEP medication.
- How often do I take PrEP?
PrEP is recommended to take daily.
- How old do I have to be to take PrEP?
PrEP is approved for adolescents without HIV who weigh at 75pounds who are at risk of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use.
- Can I just take PrEP when I know I need it?
This is called “On-Demand” PrEP. This is off-label use of PrEP. CDC recommends daily use of PrEP for HIV prevention.
Urgent Care
- Do you offer Online Urgent Care Services?
Yes, Armur Medical offers online urgent care services for its members.
- What types of Urgent care services do you offer?
Urgent care is a cornucopia of health care needs. There is a vast array of services we offer to our members. They include cough, colds, flu, respiratory issues, mental health issues, insomnia, allergies, acute and chronic pain, men and women’s health, anxiety, acne and other dermatology issues. Our concern is that you get your medical care when YOU need it, not when you can get fit into a schedule at an office.
- How do urgent care services work?
Once you become a member of Armur Medical you have access to your personal online doctor who will treat you for whatever urgent care need you may have. If you need a prescription, it will be sent to your local or closest pharmacy to where you are at.
- How does Urgent care work if I’m traveling?
Many people travel either for many different reasons. If you travel and find yourself in a different state or city and have a health concern, you simply call your personal online physician. They will send whatever prescription you need or forgot at home to the closest pharmacy for you to pick up. Its that easy. Remember, you always have access to your doctor.
- Is urgent care included in the membership for Medicare patients.
Urgent care services are not covered in Medicare patients’ membership fee.
Medicare patients still can utilize urgent care resources but Medicare will be
Billed for these services and a co-pay may be required so Armur Medical can stay Medicare compliant.
Pain Management
- How do you treat pain?
Pain is treated like any other medical concern. We take an extensive personal history and discuss your case with you.
- When do you treat patients in-person?
If a person has pain issues and chronic pain, we will not treat them online. They must schedule an appointment to be seen in person. We have partnered with offices in different metropolitan cities to see patients in person. Please contact your Armur Medical physician to discuss locations available.
- Are pain contracts needed?
Pain contracts are needed if patients who are seen in person warrant controlled pain medication. Our contracts are stringent and our desire is to work with patients in a multidisciplinary manner to treat their pain. This will include agreements to be seen by other specialties including chiropractors monthly.
- Are X-rays or imaging required for pain patients?
Patients requiring stronger medications will need imaging done to confirm diagnosis. If imaging has been done prior to arrival, please bring in copies of imaging reports.
- How often will patients need to be seen?
If patients are on controlled medications they will need to be seen monthly for assessment, progress and refills.
Save Time & Money
With Urgent Care!