Frequently Asked Questions:

Question: "Is Dr. Stansell accepting new patients?"

Answer: Yes, if you are a new patient Dr. Stansell will spend at least one hour with you obtaining a thorough medical history and performing a complete physical examination.  Laboratory studies relevant to your health care will be drawn at the end of the appointment and other studies (eg. x-rays) or procedures (eg. stress test, colonoscopy) is be arranged to fit your schedule.  A follow-up appointment will be scheduled for approximately two to four weeks after the initial meeting to review the results of your tests and procedures and to create a mutually agreeable health care plan for you.

Question: "I've been seeing another physician for several years in Los Angeles.  How do I have my medical records transferred to Dr. Stansell's office?"

Answer: You will need to sign a "Medical Records Release Form" requesting your previous medical provider transfer a copy of your medical record to Dr. Stansell's office or directly to you.  Some providers may ask for a nominal fee to cover the cost of photocopying.  "Medical Records Release Forms" are available at Dr. Stansell's office.

Question: "What happens if I'm running late or have to cancel an appointment?"

Answer: Unavoidable delays happen.  In the event of such a delay it is important to call Dr. Stansell's office immediately.  Dr. Stansell will try to fit you into the day's schedule but you may have to wait longer than usual and your appointment time may be abbreviated.  Generally, if you have to reschedule an appointment for any reason, please make sure that you call the office at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time to avoid any missed appointment charges.

Question: "Which hospital does Dr. Stansell use?"

Answer: Dr. Stansell currently has privileges at Desert Regional Hospital in Palm Springs.

Question: "To what other desert doctors does Dr. Stansell refer his patients for specialty care?"

Answer: Dr. Stansell is currently developing a list of consultants to whom he will refer specialty cases.  These consultants will cover such medical areas as:

        Dermatology

        Cardiology

        Gastroenterology

        Endocrine and metabolic disease

        Nephrology

        Hematology/Oncology

        General Surgery

        Colon & Rectal Surgery

        Neurology

        Psychiatry and Substance Use

This website will be regularly updated and the names of consultants added as they become available. 

Question: "What insurance will Dr. Stansell accept?"

Answer: Dr. Stansell currently accepts most insurance including Medicare with the exception of HMO's (at this time).

Question: "How does the office billing procedure work?"

Answer: You will be expected to pay your co-pay and deductible if applicable.

Question: "Do I have to pay for my lab tests up front also?"

Answer: No, you can use your insurance to cover all the costs of lab studies drawn in Dr. Stansell's office.  Only the co-pay/deductible is collected at the end of your appointment.

   If you have further questions please contact Dr. Stansell or his office staff at (760) 327-2277.

If you have an emergency please call 911.