Frequently Asked Questions
What is "Vista Family Medicine"?
Vista is the name we chose to practice under. A "Vista" is a "high point, where the view becomes clearer." We hope to help you see your medical issues more clearly.
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What is a family physician?
A family physician is a medical doctor who has completed an additional three years of family medicine residency training after finishing medical school. To be certified, a family physician must pass a board exam like any other specialist. Family physicians provide primary health care to patients of all ages. Our specialty emphasizes continuous, comprehensive care for our patients.
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What is the meaning of D.O.?
Both D.O.'s and M.D.'s are complete physicians. They are both licensed by the state and specialty boards to perform surgery and prescribe medication. D.O.'s
practice a "whole person" approach to medicine. Instead of just treating specific symptoms or illness they regard your body as an integrated system. D.O.'s
receive an extra 1000 hours of training in the musculoskeletal system, your body's interconnected system of nerves, muscles and bones that make up two-thirds of its body mass. This training provides them with a better understanding of the ways an injury or illness in one part of your body can affect another.
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What is a nurse practitioner?
A Nurse Practitioner is a Registered Nurse who has completed additional training in medicine. NP's in the state of Illinois have a registered nurse license as well as an advanced practice nurse license. They must have a master's degree and be board certified in their specialty. They are known for being compassionate and thorough professionals. Nurse Practitioners perform many of the duties of a physician and have a collaborative relationship with the physician.
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What type of patients and medical conditions do you see?
We see all ages of patients, from newborns to seniors. We manage a wide variety of medical conditions from chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, etc) to acute problems (such as respiratory infections, musculoskeletal injuries, rashes, headaches, etc). View our services.
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Do you give immunizations?
Yes. We provide all standard immunizations including: pediatric immunizations, tetanus shots, and travel vaccines.
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Do you deliver babies?
No. We do not perform obstetrical care. If you become pregnant, we will refer you to a local obstetrician. We would love to take care of your newborn!
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Can I bring my whole family here?
Yes. We love to see entire families. In fact, we believe that knowing the whole family and understanding family dynamics is invaluable to provide comprehensive care to the individual.
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Do you have laboratory services available?
Yes. We do a variety of rapid return labs in our office, such as strep screens, blood glucose testing, urinalysis and pregnancy tests. Often, where your lab work can be preformed is driven by your insurance plan.
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Are you accepting new patients?
Yes we are. We would love to see you.
You can call our office to schedule a new patient visit. All patients should first fill out a Registration Form listed below. We will also ask you to complete additional forms asking about past medical history, current diagnoses and treatment, family history, etc.
 Registration Form (PDF)
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What insurances do you take?
We accept most major insurances. Please see the detailed insurance list.
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What if I am on a managed care plan?
Your insurer has a list of approved providers from which you previously have chosen a "primary care physician (PCP)". You must designate Vista Family Medicine or any of our physicians as your PCP.
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Do you see Medicare and IDPA patients?
Yes, we see Medicare patients. We accept IDPA patients when they are referred to us by current patients (friends and family).
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How can I get a copy of my medical records?
Signed authorization to transfer medical records is required for all requests. This can be accomplished in person, by mail or by fax. For your convenience, you can print and complete the Medical Records Release Form listed below. Then bring it to the office on the day of your visit or fax it to us at 773.239.9102. The release must be printed and contain the patient's full name, birth date, address to send records and the signature of patient or guardian if the patient is a minor.
Requests for medical records are processed one day a week. You should receive your records in approximately 1-2 weeks. Standard fees for records processing apply.
Medical Records Release Form (PDF)
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What are my rights as a patient?
We believe patients have the right to:
- Access to care regardless of race, creed,
sex, national origin, religion, disability, or the source of
payment for care
- Respect and dignity
- Privacy and confidentiality during
interviews, examinations, communications and consultations
- Easy access to medical records and health
information
- Continuity of care
- Know the identity of all those involved
with his/her care and treatment
- Consent to care and treatment
- Transfer care
- Personal safety
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What are my responsibilities as a patient?
Patients are responsible for:
- Providing accurate and complete
information about past and present health related issues
including, but not limited to, present complaint(s), past
illnesses, hospitalizations, and medications
- Reporting unexpected changes in
conditions to the appropriate practitioner
- Asking questions about treatment/care
when the patient does not understand or needs clarification
- Following the treatment plan recommended
- Keeping or timely canceling appointments
- Their own actions if treatment is refused
or if the practitioner's instructions are not followed
- Paying for services that are provided
- Being considerate of the rights of others
- Being respectful of property
- Recognizing lifestyle choice effects on health
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What happens after regular office hours?
In an emergency, always call 911. For urgent advice, you may reach our on-call provider by calling
773.239.9100. Please note that we do not diagnose or treat illnesses by phone, only by careful evaluation.
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