Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
If you have PPO, in-network EPO, or Medicare insurance, you do not need a referral. If you have HMO insurance or another insurance plan that is not listed, you will usually need a referral. We encourage you to call us to confirm whether a referral is required.
What insurances do you accept?
We accept a wide range of insurance plans, and our list of participating providers may change over time. As of 2026, we accept CCAH, Medicaid, Medicare, Blue Shield, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. If you don’t see your insurance listed or would like to verify your coverage, please call us at 831-464-9962. Our team will be happy to confirm your insurance benefits and answer any questions before your appointment.
What can I expect on the first visit?
- The first step is completing the registration documents, medical history forms, and vein symptoms intake sheet. You may find these printable on the Patient Info page.
- Our medical assistant will then assess your vital signs in your assigned exam room.
- Our clinician will conduct an interview and perform an ultrasound-guided vein assessment to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
- When needed, compression stockings will be ordered, and follow-up visits will be scheduled at your convenience.
- Before your visit, you may receive a text message or phone call to confirm your appointment.
Where do I get compression stockings?
We have a small supply of 20-30 mmHg thigh high compression stockings, if your size is not available and insurance is to be used, we send a prescription to one of our trusted local pharmacies. They will measure you in order to find the right fit. Please note, in some cases they need to special order these and may delay availability. We recommend to stay in touch with the pharmacy to ensure they are dispensed.
Current pharmacies:
Salinas: Star Pharmacy, AllCare Pharmacy
Watsonville: Watsonville Pharmacy
Santa Cruz: Horsneyders pharmacy, Westside Pharmacy
I don’t have symptoms, do you still treat varicose and spider veins?
Yes, we assess your veins during your initial visit. If appropriate, we offer liquid and foam treatments for aesthetic purposes. Because these treatments are considered cosmetic rather than medically necessary, insurance does not cover them as an initial treatment. The current cost is $500 per treatment (one session per vial).
I still have symptoms after treatment, what is the next step?
Call 831-464-9962. We always have a provider on call to answer any questions or concerns 24/7. If you are calling after clinic hours, our answering service will relay the message. Leave a message, and our on-call clinician will return your call within 30 minutes.
What are the risks of the treatments?
Treatments vary in their risk levels, as it also depends on the patient’s medical history. Overall, risks include: ineffective treatment, allergy, thrombophlebitis, bleeding, and infection; although rare there is also a risk of deep vein thrombosis.
What symptoms warrant a visit to the emergency department?
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): Shortness of breath; swelling of the face, mouth, or throat.
Sepsis: Worsening fever, dizziness, shortness of breath, or worsening low blood pressure.
Signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Swelling, warmth, pain, and redness in one leg (not only around the treated vein area).
How do I contact my vein provider if I have questions?
You may send a message through the patient portal, or call 831-464-9962.
Can I get a copy of the forms?
Yes, you may print them from the Patient forms section.
Can I or my referring clinician get a copy of my visit records?
Yes, all referring physicians are linked to your account and should receive your visit notes after each visit for the appropriate continuation of care. If you are requesting information for yourself, a family member, or any other unlisted provider, you may complete the Release of Information form.
How do I pay?
You may register to access your account through our Pay Online link. You may also contact our clinic at 831-464-9962 during office hours (Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., except holidays) for additional methods of payment.