Frequently Asked Questions

Categories

  • All
  • Alcohol Addiction Medicine FAQ
  • General
  • Medically Assisted Weight Loss Questions
  • Opioid Addiction FAQ
  • Pain Management FAQ
  • Zepbound Questions

Alcohol Addiction Medicine FAQ

Yes.

Yes.

Of course. Some of the considerations include identifying triggers, developing coping strategies, building a support network, avoiding high risk situations, setting realistic goals and developing a wellness plan. Speak to our providers to determine what’s best for you.

Yes, there are several support groups and aftercare programs available to support long-term recovery for individuals who have completed addiction treatment. These programs aim to provide ongoing support, encouragement, and resources to help individuals maintain their sobriety and lead fulfilling lives in recovery. Common support groups and programs include: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), SMART Recovery, LifeRing Secular Recovery, and online support groups.

Inpatient rehab and outpatient treatment are two different types of addiction treatment programs that offer varying levels of support and care. They differ in location and setting, intensity of care, flexibility, duration, cost and suitability to the individual. Healthcare professionals can help assess what’s best for the patient.

Vivitrol is a medicine that doctors use to help people who have trouble with alcohol or opioid addiction. It’s given as a shot, and it works by blocking certain chemicals in the brain that can cause addiction. This helps reduce cravings and makes it easier for people to stay away from alcohol or opioids. It’s an important part of a treatment plan to help people recover from addiction and live healthier lives.

General

ACCU Labs onsite for Urine Drug Screens and Blood Draws. All Lab services are billed and collected by ACCU Labs not our office.

  • Patient’s full name (including middle initial)
  • Date of birth
  • Current address and phone number
  • Current insurance information
  • Referring Physician if Referred
  • Email Address and Cell Phone #
  • Purpose of the appointment*

*It is important to let the scheduler know about all the concerns you would like addressed during your appointment so we can schedule the appropriate amount of time to care for your needs.

If you are having a life-threatening emergency, call 911. After hours, our answering service will send a message to the provider on call who will reply as soon as possible.

We do charge a fee for a missed appointment. Please call your physician’s office as soon as you realize you will not be able to keep your appointment. Reschedules or cancellations made 24 hours or less prior to your scheduled appointment time will be billed a no show or reschedule fee. $25 – Follow Up and $50 for new eval or procedure.

Yes. As a service to our patients, primary insurance and secondary is billed. You will receive a statement for any money due that isn’t collected at time of service.

Our self-pay prices for patients without insurance are $375 for New Evaluation and $150 for Follow Up Visit. We also offer Care Credit. All other services prices can be discussed on an as-needed basis.

We accept major insurances including, but not limited to, the ones listed below. Please call the office if you don’t see your insurance listed, as we’re always adding new plans. 

  • Medicare Part B
  • Most Medicare Replacement Plans
  • Oklahoma Sooner Care Medicaid
  • THMP Texas Medicaid as Secondary to Medicare Only
  • Aetna Commercial Insurance ( Nurse Practitioners Only)
  • BCBS Commercial Insurance
  • Cigna Commercial Insurance
  • Cigna Health Spring Medicare
  • Humana Insurance
  • Tricare Prime HMO
  • Tricare Select PPO
  • United Healthcare
  • Well Care
  • Well Med

Medically Assisted Weight Loss Questions

In our program, we focus on creating a lifestyle change that will maintain weight loss once medications are removed from the daily plan. We also utilize multiple medications that are prescribed long term.

Our providers develop each care plan to the patient’s specific needs. That makes each patient’s visit requirements different, but we will accommodate this to your needs and schedule. 

Yes! For our compounded medication, the patients will have to use our specialty pharmacy. The pharmacy will ship directly to the patient.

We encourage you to follow all manufacturer’s guidelines; typically, injectable medications for weight loss are stable at room temperature for 28 days. This makes it convenient when traveling, too!

The subcutaneous injection features a small self-administering needle that makes it very easy and nearly painless to administer.

You can expect an EKG, INbody composition test,  full medication review, diet recall and evaluation, developing a meal plan and medication that will best suit your needs.

Texas patients can be seen 100% online and Oklahoma patients must visit the office for their first visit and can be seen via Telemedicine thereafter. You must have a scale, camera, blood pressure cuff and a stable internet connection. 

Yes—they have the same active ingredient.

There are several medications approved for weight loss, including Wegovy, Qsymia, Saxenda, Contrave, Metformin and more. They come in pill and/or injection form. Our providers will determine the best prescription medication for your personal needs. Paragon also partners with a compounding pharmacy to offer Semaglutide and Tirzepatide at an affordable self-pay price starting at $191 and $341 per month.

Yes, our Nurse Practitioner and Physicians are Board Certified in obesity and specialize in administering medical weight loss.

This depends on the insurance and medication. We accept a wide variety of insurance plans and always let our patients know of out-of-pocket costs before services are rendered by our physicians. We cannot guarantee coverage of medications, this depends on your insurance plan. We will always work with your insurance to try to get medications that we prescribe covered. 

The first appointment is $375 and follow up appointments are $150 each, plus the cost of medication. We also offer Care Credit.

Men and women over the age of 18 with a BMI of 30 and above, or BMI of 27+ with at least one weight-related condition, such as controlled hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol. 

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a person’s weight divided by height. BMI screens for weight categories that may lead to health problems. You can calculate your BMI here

Medically assisted weight loss, or medical weight loss, refers to weight loss treatment under the supervision of medical providers and often includes prescription medication as well as a personalized nutrition and exercise plan to support weight loss. Medical weight loss is a safe and effective way to lose weight for adults with a BMI of 30+ or 27+ with comorbidities. 

Opioid Addiction FAQ

Yes.

Yes.

Long-term recovery can be supported by counseling or therapy sessions; support groups, like Narcotics Anonymous (NA); medications like Vivitrol, Suboxone, or methadone; a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep; building a support network; education about addiction and self-care.

There are several options available to patients, including support groups, telemed talk therapy, counseling, church groups, AA and more. Our provider will refer and assist with identifying what’s best for each patient.

The success rate of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for substance use disorders can vary depending on various factors, including the type of substance being treated, the individual’s commitment to treatment, the presence of co-occurring disorders, and the level of support received during the recovery process. Studies have shown that MAT can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), MAT has been found to reduce opioid use, increase retention in treatment programs, decrease the risk of relapse, and improve overall functioning and quality of life.

During a first addiction medical visit, the healthcare provider will gather information to understand the individual’s addiction history, medical condition, treatment needs and may perform a urine screening.

Yes, Dr. Vargas is Board Certified by the American Board of Addiction Medicine and our addiction specialist team has received extensive training with the American Society of Addiction Medicine and years of experience supporting patients with addiction.

Outpatient treatment options are designed to be flexible and cater to individuals with various needs and schedules. The outpatient program recommended will depend on the severity of the addiction, the individual’s support system and other factors. For some individuals, a combination of outpatient services, medication and community support can contribute to successful recovery from opioid addiction. At Paragon Health Partners, we offer a combination of medication assisted treatment and motivational interview services, in addition to referral for a higher level of care when needed.

Pain Management FAQ

In short, our approach is comprehensive. At Paragon, we’re committed to setting you free from emotional & physical obstacles to reveal the best version of YOU.. We do this by approaching your wellness as a WHOLE, with compassion, and finding the best solution for you. Whether you visit us for pain, weight loss or addiction, we strive to free you from your kind of pain and improve your quality of life.

We offer a variety of treatment options that include therapy with multiple modalities, injectional therapeutics, weight loss, PRP, Corticosteroids, dorsal column stimulation (Spinal Cord Stimulation), Kyphoplasty, and MILD, amongst others.

Please give us a call at 972-203-3600 or contact us here so our team can verify with your insurance if a referral is needed.

You can expect your first visit to be approximately one hour. Wear comfortable clothes for a physical exam. Our team of specialists will do a thorough evaluation of your medical history, goals and primary complaint. Lab services (blood or urine) are available onsite for your convenience. As always, you can expect compassionate, compliant care and a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs.

If you’re being seen via Telemedicine, please ensure you have completed your paperwork on the patient portal prior to the visit.

While our primary specialty is chronic pain management, which persists for an extended period, often beyond the expected healing time, we support patients with chronic or acute pain. Acute pain can typically be treated with anti-inflammatories, ice, cold packs, home exercises and short term therapy.

Our doctors specialize in a wide variety of treatments and will identify what is best suited for each patient. To name a few – therapeutic options include referring to physical/occupational/speech therapy, medication management and injection therapy; diagnostic treatments include interventional pain procedures, EMG/NCV, regenerative medicine (PRP), diagnostic testing, and physical exams.

Zepbound Questions

Zepbound is available by prescription only. Your healthcare provider can assess whether Zepbound is suitable for you and provide a prescription if deemed appropriate

Weight loss outcomes vary from person to person. While Zepbound can aid weight loss, actual results depend on individual factors like adherence to the prescribed regimen, diet, exercise, and overall health condition.

Zepbound has not shown addictive properties in clinical trials. However, it’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not increase it without consulting a healthcare provider.

Zepbound might not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with certain medical conditions like uncontrolled hypertension or eating disorders, or individuals taking specific medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine if Zepbound is safe for you.

Long-term safety studies are ongoing, but initial trials suggest that Zepbound can be used for an extended period under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Regular check-ins with your doctor are important to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Zepbound is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. It is not a standalone solution for weight loss but can significantly support lifestyle changes.

Zepbound is an injection once a week, as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency may vary based on individual health factors. It’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not exceed recommendations.

Like any medication, Zepbound may have side effects. Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, constipation, and headaches. It’s essential to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting this medication.

Zepbound is intended for individuals classified as obese or overweight with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related health issues such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

Zepbound works by targeting specific receptors in the brain that regulate hunger and metabolism. It helps reduce appetite while increasing the body’s ability to burn calories.

Zepbound is an innovative weight loss medication designed to assist individuals in managing their weight by curbing appetite and boosting metabolism.

Alcohol Addiction Medicine FAQ

Yes.

Yes.

Of course. Some of the considerations include identifying triggers, developing coping strategies, building a support network, avoiding high risk situations, setting realistic goals and developing a wellness plan. Speak to our providers to determine what’s best for you.

Yes, there are several support groups and aftercare programs available to support long-term recovery for individuals who have completed addiction treatment. These programs aim to provide ongoing support, encouragement, and resources to help individuals maintain their sobriety and lead fulfilling lives in recovery. Common support groups and programs include: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), SMART Recovery, LifeRing Secular Recovery, and online support groups.

Inpatient rehab and outpatient treatment are two different types of addiction treatment programs that offer varying levels of support and care. They differ in location and setting, intensity of care, flexibility, duration, cost and suitability to the individual. Healthcare professionals can help assess what’s best for the patient.

Vivitrol is a medicine that doctors use to help people who have trouble with alcohol or opioid addiction. It’s given as a shot, and it works by blocking certain chemicals in the brain that can cause addiction. This helps reduce cravings and makes it easier for people to stay away from alcohol or opioids. It’s an important part of a treatment plan to help people recover from addiction and live healthier lives.

General

ACCU Labs onsite for Urine Drug Screens and Blood Draws. All Lab services are billed and collected by ACCU Labs not our office.

  • Patient’s full name (including middle initial)
  • Date of birth
  • Current address and phone number
  • Current insurance information
  • Referring Physician if Referred
  • Email Address and Cell Phone #
  • Purpose of the appointment*

*It is important to let the scheduler know about all the concerns you would like addressed during your appointment so we can schedule the appropriate amount of time to care for your needs.

If you are having a life-threatening emergency, call 911. After hours, our answering service will send a message to the provider on call who will reply as soon as possible.

We do charge a fee for a missed appointment. Please call your physician’s office as soon as you realize you will not be able to keep your appointment. Reschedules or cancellations made 24 hours or less prior to your scheduled appointment time will be billed a no show or reschedule fee. $25 – Follow Up and $50 for new eval or procedure.

Yes. As a service to our patients, primary insurance and secondary is billed. You will receive a statement for any money due that isn’t collected at time of service.

Our self-pay prices for patients without insurance are $375 for New Evaluation and $150 for Follow Up Visit. We also offer Care Credit. All other services prices can be discussed on an as-needed basis.

We accept major insurances including, but not limited to, the ones listed below. Please call the office if you don’t see your insurance listed, as we’re always adding new plans. 

  • Medicare Part B
  • Most Medicare Replacement Plans
  • Oklahoma Sooner Care Medicaid
  • THMP Texas Medicaid as Secondary to Medicare Only
  • Aetna Commercial Insurance ( Nurse Practitioners Only)
  • BCBS Commercial Insurance
  • Cigna Commercial Insurance
  • Cigna Health Spring Medicare
  • Humana Insurance
  • Tricare Prime HMO
  • Tricare Select PPO
  • United Healthcare
  • Well Care
  • Well Med

Medically Assisted Weight Loss Questions

In our program, we focus on creating a lifestyle change that will maintain weight loss once medications are removed from the daily plan. We also utilize multiple medications that are prescribed long term.

Our providers develop each care plan to the patient’s specific needs. That makes each patient’s visit requirements different, but we will accommodate this to your needs and schedule. 

Yes! For our compounded medication, the patients will have to use our specialty pharmacy. The pharmacy will ship directly to the patient.

We encourage you to follow all manufacturer’s guidelines; typically, injectable medications for weight loss are stable at room temperature for 28 days. This makes it convenient when traveling, too!

The subcutaneous injection features a small self-administering needle that makes it very easy and nearly painless to administer.

You can expect an EKG, INbody composition test,  full medication review, diet recall and evaluation, developing a meal plan and medication that will best suit your needs.

Texas patients can be seen 100% online and Oklahoma patients must visit the office for their first visit and can be seen via Telemedicine thereafter. You must have a scale, camera, blood pressure cuff and a stable internet connection. 

Yes—they have the same active ingredient.

There are several medications approved for weight loss, including Wegovy, Qsymia, Saxenda, Contrave, Metformin and more. They come in pill and/or injection form. Our providers will determine the best prescription medication for your personal needs. Paragon also partners with a compounding pharmacy to offer Semaglutide and Tirzepatide at an affordable self-pay price starting at $191 and $341 per month.

Yes, our Nurse Practitioner and Physicians are Board Certified in obesity and specialize in administering medical weight loss.

This depends on the insurance and medication. We accept a wide variety of insurance plans and always let our patients know of out-of-pocket costs before services are rendered by our physicians. We cannot guarantee coverage of medications, this depends on your insurance plan. We will always work with your insurance to try to get medications that we prescribe covered. 

The first appointment is $375 and follow up appointments are $150 each, plus the cost of medication. We also offer Care Credit.

Men and women over the age of 18 with a BMI of 30 and above, or BMI of 27+ with at least one weight-related condition, such as controlled hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol. 

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a person’s weight divided by height. BMI screens for weight categories that may lead to health problems. You can calculate your BMI here

Medically assisted weight loss, or medical weight loss, refers to weight loss treatment under the supervision of medical providers and often includes prescription medication as well as a personalized nutrition and exercise plan to support weight loss. Medical weight loss is a safe and effective way to lose weight for adults with a BMI of 30+ or 27+ with comorbidities. 

Opioid Addiction FAQ

Yes.

Yes.

Long-term recovery can be supported by counseling or therapy sessions; support groups, like Narcotics Anonymous (NA); medications like Vivitrol, Suboxone, or methadone; a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep; building a support network; education about addiction and self-care.

There are several options available to patients, including support groups, telemed talk therapy, counseling, church groups, AA and more. Our provider will refer and assist with identifying what’s best for each patient.

The success rate of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for substance use disorders can vary depending on various factors, including the type of substance being treated, the individual’s commitment to treatment, the presence of co-occurring disorders, and the level of support received during the recovery process. Studies have shown that MAT can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), MAT has been found to reduce opioid use, increase retention in treatment programs, decrease the risk of relapse, and improve overall functioning and quality of life.

During a first addiction medical visit, the healthcare provider will gather information to understand the individual’s addiction history, medical condition, treatment needs and may perform a urine screening.

Yes, Dr. Vargas is Board Certified by the American Board of Addiction Medicine and our addiction specialist team has received extensive training with the American Society of Addiction Medicine and years of experience supporting patients with addiction.

Outpatient treatment options are designed to be flexible and cater to individuals with various needs and schedules. The outpatient program recommended will depend on the severity of the addiction, the individual’s support system and other factors. For some individuals, a combination of outpatient services, medication and community support can contribute to successful recovery from opioid addiction. At Paragon Health Partners, we offer a combination of medication assisted treatment and motivational interview services, in addition to referral for a higher level of care when needed.

Pain Management FAQ

In short, our approach is comprehensive. At Paragon, we’re committed to setting you free from emotional & physical obstacles to reveal the best version of YOU.. We do this by approaching your wellness as a WHOLE, with compassion, and finding the best solution for you. Whether you visit us for pain, weight loss or addiction, we strive to free you from your kind of pain and improve your quality of life.

We offer a variety of treatment options that include therapy with multiple modalities, injectional therapeutics, weight loss, PRP, Corticosteroids, dorsal column stimulation (Spinal Cord Stimulation), Kyphoplasty, and MILD, amongst others.

Please give us a call at 972-203-3600 or contact us here so our team can verify with your insurance if a referral is needed.

You can expect your first visit to be approximately one hour. Wear comfortable clothes for a physical exam. Our team of specialists will do a thorough evaluation of your medical history, goals and primary complaint. Lab services (blood or urine) are available onsite for your convenience. As always, you can expect compassionate, compliant care and a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs.

If you’re being seen via Telemedicine, please ensure you have completed your paperwork on the patient portal prior to the visit.

While our primary specialty is chronic pain management, which persists for an extended period, often beyond the expected healing time, we support patients with chronic or acute pain. Acute pain can typically be treated with anti-inflammatories, ice, cold packs, home exercises and short term therapy.

Our doctors specialize in a wide variety of treatments and will identify what is best suited for each patient. To name a few – therapeutic options include referring to physical/occupational/speech therapy, medication management and injection therapy; diagnostic treatments include interventional pain procedures, EMG/NCV, regenerative medicine (PRP), diagnostic testing, and physical exams.

Zepbound Questions

Zepbound is available by prescription only. Your healthcare provider can assess whether Zepbound is suitable for you and provide a prescription if deemed appropriate

Weight loss outcomes vary from person to person. While Zepbound can aid weight loss, actual results depend on individual factors like adherence to the prescribed regimen, diet, exercise, and overall health condition.

Zepbound has not shown addictive properties in clinical trials. However, it’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not increase it without consulting a healthcare provider.

Zepbound might not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with certain medical conditions like uncontrolled hypertension or eating disorders, or individuals taking specific medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine if Zepbound is safe for you.

Long-term safety studies are ongoing, but initial trials suggest that Zepbound can be used for an extended period under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Regular check-ins with your doctor are important to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Zepbound is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. It is not a standalone solution for weight loss but can significantly support lifestyle changes.

Zepbound is an injection once a week, as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency may vary based on individual health factors. It’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not exceed recommendations.

Like any medication, Zepbound may have side effects. Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, constipation, and headaches. It’s essential to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting this medication.

Zepbound is intended for individuals classified as obese or overweight with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related health issues such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

Zepbound works by targeting specific receptors in the brain that regulate hunger and metabolism. It helps reduce appetite while increasing the body’s ability to burn calories.

Zepbound is an innovative weight loss medication designed to assist individuals in managing their weight by curbing appetite and boosting metabolism.

Am I a Candidate?

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Call to schedule or complete the contact form on our website!

 

Phone Number is (972) 203-3600 or email at info@paragonphp.com

Ideal candidates have:

BMI of 30 and above

BMI of 27+ with at least one weight related condition, such as controlled hypertension, diabetes or high cholesterol

Please click here or call (972) 203-3600 to get started.