Frequently Asked Questions

What are you doing to protect patients from COVID-19?

Our physicians take the protection of our patients (and our own families) very seriously. We have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In our clinic, we use EPA approved materials to sanitize between all patients. We have HEPA filters that clean 99.9% of airborne allergens, dust, pollen, mold spores, odors, and pet dander down to 0.1 microns. It completely cleans the air in each exam room every 30 minutes.

Is my child safe to come to your clinic?

Yes. Due to the precautions taken above, we have ensured that there will be as low a risk as possible of infection. It is significantly less than the risk of going to a busy, crowded clinic! We also offer home visits as well!

Do you take insurance?

We see everyone, regardless of insurance status. Our doctors don't work for insurance companies - we work for you! Bloom Pediatrics is easier than most doctors’ offices. Instead of presenting your insurance card, paying a copay, then getting an ADDITIONAL bill in a few weeks/months of an unexpected (and often excessive) amount, you pay once a month and that has you covered for everything. This way, there is no concern that we are out of network or not part of your groups plan. And if you’re uninsured, you can still be seen!

Is Direct Primary Care insurance?

No. Although we are great at our job, we can't predict the future. We recommend all our patients have at least a high-deductible/catastrophic insurance plan or a be a part of a healthsharing ministry for those high-cost events such as an ER trip or hospital admission.

My child has Medicaid, will you see them?

Yes! Because the type (or lack) of insurance, doesn’t matter! We see every child regardless of their insurance status. We do not bill Medicaid, however, and a membership fee will still apply.

Do I still need insurance?

Yes. We recommend all patients maintain some sort of insurance plan. You can discuss with your insurance representative about what plan would be best for you.

Do you take HSA cards?

Bloom accepts all forms of payment, including HSA cards. Check your individual policy to verify eligibility, though!

How do I join the practice?

You fill out a request for a meet and greet and Dr. VanGundy will contact you to schedule this virtual meeting! If you have questions prior to this, you can always text, call, or email!

My child is healthy, why do I need a membership?

That's great! We want them to stay that way and we can help with that. Our goal is to prevent disease as well as treat it. We can be there, however, for those not-so-great times. One trip to the Emergency Room is about equivalent to an entire YEAR of membership with us! In addition to saving you money, we also will save you time (an ER trip is never fast), and peace of mind. It will be your doctor seeing your child instead of someone you’ve never met. It will be your doctor answering your middle of the night questions. It will be your doctor who is 100% there for your child. That is priceless.

What if my child needs to see a specialist or is admitted to the hospital?

This is why we recommend you still have insurance. We will not make unnecessary referals, but sometimes it is needed. If you see a specialist or get admitted, it will go through your insurance as usual. Your membership fee will not cover these costs. The benefit is our physicians will help expedite your admission and work closely with the team treating you and this will likely shorten your stay and save you money!

How is my membership billed?

We will bill your credit/debit card or bank account directly each month starting from the time of your first appointment. You can choose to be billed on the 1st or 15th. Since we automatically bill, you don't have to remember to pay each month!

How do I cancel my membership?

We hope you don't have to make this decision, but if you do, there is no penalty to you. Your membership will terminate 30 days from the time of notice. If you decide to return at a later time, there may be a re-enrollment fee.

Will it really be my doctor answering my text?

Yep. Our physicians are really that available. Any time you call. Any time you text. Any time you email. It will always be your doctor responding. How many pediatricians can say that?

What if my child gets sick after hours?

We know that illness doesn't respect traditional office hours. If your child is ill, you can call or text! You will get your doctors cell phone number when you become a member. We do have families, however, and we ask that you try to keep all non-urgent communication to business hours.

How long is the wait time to see my doctor?

Established patients often are seen the same or next day for unexpected visits! Patients can be seen for a wellness check within a week from enrollment. When you arrive at your appointment, there will be no one else in line to see your doctor so your wait time in the office will be negligible! No more taking an entire day off work to go to the doctor - schedule for when it is convenient for YOU!

What are your hours?

Due to the unique style of our clinic, there are no "set hours" for established patients and our doctors are almost always available. Our typical business hours are 9 am - 3:30 pm Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday and 9 am - 12 pm on Wedensday and Friday.

What do we do when my doctor is on vacation?

Dr. Hughes and Dr. VanGundy will coordinate vacations so one is always available. We will always take care of each other's patients with the same care and concern.

What do we do if my child gets sick while we are out of town?

Because we know your child so well, we likely will be able to take care of your child with a virtual visit and calling in prescriptions if it is appropriate.

What is the vaccine policy at Bloom?

Vaccines can be scary. We get that. No one likes shots. They hurt! Our pediatricians use topical numbing medicine, a Buzzy Bee, and other distraction methods to help kids be more comfortable. Both Dr. Hughes and Dr. VanGundy recommend (and vaccinate their children) following the CDC schedule. We fully believe that vaccines are the greatest invention of modern medicine and key to preventing horrible diseases.

Are you supportive of formula feeding?

Of course! Our doctors are most in support of feeding an infant how their family decides is best. Bloom Pediatrics isn't just personalized in how children are fed, but in all aspects of their care.

How much is a membership?

Prices are listed here

How much is the fourth trimester package?

$700 total for all in clinic visits. $1300 total for all in home visits.