FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

In a traditional medical practice, a doctor serves thousands of patients annually. The physician has a limited amount of time to devote to each scheduled appointment, making it difficult to address individualized concerns and questions. Also, patients often face long waits when scheduling appointments and inconvenient delays in crowded waiting rooms.

Signature Health is a patient centered, membership-based practice which limits its total number of clients. Founded on the premise that every patient deserves the time and individualized attention to address his or her wellbeing, this design also allows for same or next-day appointments.  Any questions or concerns can be addressed by Dr. Spiegel or Dr. Bagwell without the patient feeling rushed or ignored.  Wellness and prevention are also emphasized in conjunction with any medical concerns or illnesses.

Yes. It is recommended that you continue to carry medical insurance. Your provider will be billed for covered medical services. Your individual insurance coverage is also necessary for emergency or hospital visits, prescription medications, x-ray, diagnostic tests and specialist visits. 

No. Medicare nor private insurance will pay for or reimburse a patient’s membership fee at Signature Health.  However, certain tax-favored health plans or accounts, such as a Health Savings Account (HSA), may cover your membership.  Each case is unique and whether membership fees are covered should be determined by you, your tax advisor or employer (if your particular plan is employer sponsored).

Dr. Spiegel or Dr. Bagwell will coordinate your care with the appropriate specialist(s) to best address a particular medical condition. You are also encouraged to continue seeing any physicians that are monitoring a preexisting condition.  Our doctors have many highly qualified colleagues that can assist if specialty care is needed.

Signature Health hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Fridays, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  Please note, the office is closed daily from 12:00 p.m.- 1:00 p.m. (except Friday). Accommodations are frequently made on a case-by-case basis for after-hours visits. A doctor is available 24 hours/7 days of the week.  If our doctors are out of town for vacation or a professional conference, another highly qualified physician is on call.

Dr. Spiegel will admit and supervise patients at St Vincent’s Hospital, Birmingham.

Signature Health operates a full-service medical office and provides several in-office tests (such as an EKG).  Blood samples can also be drawn for routine lab work. For advanced diagnostic tests and radiology services, we work with your insurance provider to determine the most appropriate and convenient locations. Insurance will be billed for these services and are not covered by the annual fee.

Often, we can give patients starter samples for long-term prescriptions.  To sustain medication, prescription coverage via your insurance should be used.  Refills can also be requested by email through a secure website. 

We know that certain situations do affect your healthcare choice.  Medical records can easily be transferred to another doctor at your request. The unused portion of the annual fee paid will be refunded.

Our doctors and staff will gladly arrange a tour and discuss our services at your convenience. Call 205-380-8820 to set up an appointment. 

At Signature Health, the concept of family is very important and, like you, we desire the best medical care for our families. With that in mind, we will make arrangements to see the visiting family of our members in times of need. The family of our members will be charged for the visit (which we will submit to their individual insurance providers), but they can expect the same level of care and service that our members enjoy.

Yes.  Each member will have access to a secure website with their medical history and medications. The site is accessible anywhere there is internet service. This is extremely helpful for any unexpected emergencies during out of town excursions. Your history and medications can be available to other healthcare professionals if needed.  Also, you will be able to see any lab and radiology results online after the doctor has reviewed them.

Both Dr. Spiegel and Dr. Bagwell:

• • Adults over 39 years old: $2000
  • Discounted rate for a Spouse or Partner: $1800
  • Adults under 39 years old: $900

Dr. Bagwell only:

• • Newborn through college age:
    • 1^st Child: $900
    • 2^nd Child: $700
    • Each subsequent child: $500
    • Discounted rate for each child, -$200, if parent is a patient.
  • Family Maximum Fees:
    • If parent is over 39 years old, maximum family fee is $5000
    • If parent is 39 years old or younger, maximum family fee is $4000

Dr. Spiegel only:

• • • Premium Membership with Home Visits (limited service area): $3000, Spouse/Partner: $2500

Signature Health is accessible by phone, fax, and secure email. Members will be given cell phone access to their doctor.

Call our office at 205-380-8820 and someone will gladly assist you.