FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS




Serving patients in Columbia, Clarksville, Ellicott City, Fulton, Howard County, Baltimore and DC Metro & beyond

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  • How do I become a patient at this practice?

    The first step is to book a  Meet and Greet. At this meeting, we determine if Oak Tree Primary Care is a good fit for you. If we mutually decide it is a good fit, you will join our waitlist.

  • How long is the waitlist?

    At the time of your Meet and Greet, you will be advised on the potential wait times, which can be anywhere from a few weeks to several months.  Our goal is to thoughtfully onboard new patients in a way that does not disrupt access for existing patients. This might take longer or sooner than anticipated. 

  • I have many specialists, will you coordinate with all my doctors?

    Yes. As a primary care physician, we care-coordinate and help you navigate this exceedingly complicated and confusing healthcare ecosystem. Dr. Zaheer will be in touch with all your healthcare providers as needed to make sure everyone is on the same page. 


  • Is Dr. Zaheer affiliated with any hospital?

    Dr. Zaheer is credentialed with the Howard County General Hospital, however patients may go to any hospital that works better for them. Nowadays, hospitalists take care of patients in the hospital, but Dr. Zaheer will be following your inpatient care closely and will be in communication with your care team as needed. Since Dr. Zaheer is an independent practitioner, there are no incentives for her to refer to certain providers or hospitals, except what benefits the patient. 

  • Does Dr. Zaheer do house calls?

    On occasion, a home visit may be medically necessary.  If the need arises, this will be discussed with the patient. Depending on the circumstances, there may be an additional fee of $150 per visit. 


  • Can I use my insurance for labs?

    Yes. Most patients opt to do so. However, our patients also have access to heavily discounted labs for cash pay prices, saving them additional costs. 


  • Can I use my HSA/ FSA to pay for the membership?

    This varies for each individual and plan, but many patients are able to get their membership covered. We are happy to provide any documentation that may help you with coverage.

  • Does my membership apply towards my deductible?

    No. Since we do not bill insurance the fee does not go towards the deductible. However, our memberships do work very well with high deductible insurance plans, and members report fewer out of pocket expenses, once they have access to a trusted primary care physician. 

  • I have a very busy job and cannot always take time off for my appointments. How will this practice support me?

    Firstly, on most occasions you will get the appointment time/date of your choice. Secondly, not every visit needs to be in-person, Telehealth is an option available to all members. There will be certain instances where having an in-person appointment will be necessary, and Dr. Zaheer will advise accordingly.  Usually one-on-one, we are always able to figure out a solution. We want to make your healthcare experience convenient, pleasant, efficient and safe.

  • Does my membership fee cover all visits?

    Yes, all visits are included in the membership fee.



  • Does the practice bill insurance?

    No, we do not bill your insurance, but we strongly recommend all individuals to have health insurance to cover emergencies, specialty care and certain diagnostics. This applies for Medicare, Medicaid as well as commercial plans.