Helpful Information from Dr. Rashid

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Aside from traditional Medicare, I do not bill or accept health insurance for the time I spend with you. Over the years, declining reimbursements from insurance companies have forced many rheumatology practices to see more patients per hour, shorten visits, or have nurse practitioners and physician assistants handle most of the patient care. In that system, the focus often shifts from thoughtful, personalized medicine to assembly-line care.

At Pinnacle Rheumatology, I’ve chosen a different path. Every visit is with me—a board-certified rheumatologist with faculty appointments at three medical schools in the Valley—so you receive the time, attention, and expertise you deserve without the distractions of insurance requirements dictating your care.

Direct specialty care is a fee-for-service model that provides clear, upfront pricing and direct access to high-quality rheumatology care—without the frustrations of traditional insurance. Sometimes called concierge rheumatology, this model is transparent, accessible, and focused entirely on you. You don’t need a referral to see me, and by removing insurance barriers, I’m able to spend more time listening to your concerns and providing thoughtful care. There are no rushed visits, no hidden costs, and no membership fees—just straightforward access to a board-certified rheumatologist when you need it.

Yes. Even though I don’t bill commercial insurance for my visits, you can still use your these insurance plans for most medications, lab tests, imaging, and referrals. Prescriptions can be filled at your usual pharmacy, and lab work or imaging can be sent to the facility of your choice. My role is to guide you toward the safest, most cost-effective options, while your insurance helps offset the cost of those outside services.

You may be able to get partial reimbursement for your visits through your commercial insurance plan’s out-of-network benefits. After your visit, I’ll provide you with a detailed superbill—a specialized receipt that includes the medical codes insurance companies require. You can submit this to your insurance for possible reimbursement. Reimbursement will depend on your individual plan.

No. I do not receive any financial benefit from the medications I prescribe, the tests I order, or the treatments I recommend. I don’t profit from where you fill prescriptions, which lab you use, or which infusion center you choose. I also do not work for or receive payments from pharmaceutical companies. My only focus is providing you with unbiased, patient-centered care.

No. You are free to choose where you receive your medication, including options that may be more affordable with your insurance coverage. My role is to provide honest, unbiased guidance so together we can find the option that is safest, most convenient, and best suited to your needs.

No, I am no longer affiliated with any other rheumatology practices.