Direct phone access to me or to my staff during business hours.
All phone calls will be returned promptly, but if you deem your problem “urgent,” I will make every effort to speak to you at the time of your call. You, the patient, define what “urgent” means. If you think it is urgent, I think it is urgent.
My personal cell phone number will be provided to you.
This will allow easy access to me for urgent medical problems that occur outside of my regular office hours. Ideally, I want to hear from you when you are ill or injured before you consider a visit to a hospital or urgent care center. However, for true emergencies call 911 first.
Convenient portal access for non-urgent health issues or questions.
You will continue to be able to use the patient portal to communicate with us for non-urgent issues. The patient portal is preferred for written messaging since it is secure. Because e-mail communication is not secure, please use discretion when choosing topics to discuss with me or staff via email.
Same-day or next business day appointments.
With the exception of your annual evaluation, most office visits will be available on short notice, at your request, even for minor or non-urgent medical problems.
Extended office hours.
Office visits are best scheduled during normal office hours when the full complement of staff is available. However, should you require occasional visits of an early morning or end of the workday appointment Monday through Friday, I will certainly do my best to reasonably accommodate you.
Little or no office waiting room time, and longer appointments.
All appointment times will be extended, allowing adequate time to thoroughly address all of your questions and concerns.
Strong focus on preventive medicine and long term health and wellness.
My philosophy is to educate you about your personal medical needs and risks. I will work with you to assess your level of fitness and determine an appropriate personal wellness plan. This will allow you to take an active role in managing and maintaining good health.
Personalized hospital care.
Should you need to be hospitalized I will continue to remain involved in your care. I will make my best efforts to see you at Northwestern Memorial Hospital Downtown Chicago/Streeterville Campus and communicate regularly with the hospitalists and specialists involved in your care.
Adult dependent children of members are welcome.
If a parent opts to join my new personalized care practice, I will be happy to care for his/her dependent children between the ages of 18 and 26 at a discounted rate.
End-of-life counseling visits with patient and family.
If serious illness or injury occurs, I will be there to help you through the maze of modern healthcare. I would be honored to offer counsel regarding serious illness and end-of-life issues. Upon request, I will discuss viable options, personal concerns, and will assist you in working through your decisions.
Long distance care.
Whether you are on a brief vacation or living some of the year in a second residence, I am available for consultation. However, if in my judgment you need to be seen by a local physician, you will be encouraged by me to seek medical attention. I will communicate with you directly as well as with your treating physician in order to coordinate your care on health issues that may arise.
Integrated Electronic Healthcare Information Portal.
You will have quick easy access to your medical records through the patient portal. You can also request prescription refills, message my staff, schedule appointments, etc. through the portal.
House Calls.
I will provide house calls, based on availability, for an additional $100 per visit.
The Staff.
The Office Manager is the only staff member and your go-to person for all of your needs during regular office hours if you prefer not to call Dr. O’Mara directly
