Frequently Asked Questions
WhoM DOES Arbor SERVE?
Our patient population spans all ages and a wide variety
of backgrounds. Most patients either lack medical insurance or are underinsured.
About one-third of our patients are currently homeless. Priority is given
to patients who cannot afford health care elsewhere.
Who runs Arbor?
From its founding days to the present
time, Arbor has been managed by Stanford Medical Students. Clinical cases
are overseen by an attending physican or resident who also serves as a
clinical mentor. Because Arbor operates as a teaching clinic, patients
should anticipate being evaluated by multiple individuals, including first
or second year medical students and clinical medical students.
Do
I need to make an appointment?
No. Arbor sees patients on a walk-in
basis between 11am and 2pm every Sunday.
How
long will it take to be seen by A doctor?
We make every effort to ensure that patients are treated in a timely
fashion. However, in general, the process of getting through the Clinic
takes longer than for similar services provided elsewhere. Patients are
seen on a first-come, first-served basis (except those with urgent medical
complaints, who will be given priority) and are evaluated by at least
one student before seeing a physician.
Can I bring my children too?
Yes! We love kids and strive to have
a pediatrician on staff each week. Whether your child is sick or simply
needs a check-up, Arbor can help. Additionally, we offer a reading program
while children wait.
Does Arbor provide childhood immunizations?
No. Arbor does not provide immunizations.
It's important for your children to have a regular pediatrician or family
doctor; we can help you find one if you don't have one already.
Are translators available?
Yes. A Spanish translator or Spanish-speaking
staff member is always present. Unfortunately, we can't always meet other
language needs, so patients who speak another language are encouraged
to bring someone with them who can help translate.
DO I have to pay for services
provided By Arbor?
No. All of Arbor's services are completely
free, including lab work, medications, and physician services.
DOES ARBOR OFFER REFERALLS?
Yes. We refer patients to
local, low-cost clinics for follow-up of complex medical problems and
for continuing care. Payment of services at these clinics is negotiated
by the patient and the respective clinic. Arbor does not pay for services
provided by other clinics.
DOES ARBOR PROVIDE follow-up
care?
No. Arbor is not equiped to provide
follow-up care. However, staff members are dedicated to helping patients
establish ongoing relationships with local health care providers and take
advantage of available outside medical resources.
