Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I choose a doctor?
On this web site we provide a directory of primary care physicians. There are several criteria available to choose from to refine your search: location, specialty, hospital affiliation, languages spoken. Determine your needs and research if that physician meets them. We have over 300 primary care physicians who practice in their private offices that are located throughout the San Fernando, Santa Clarita and San Gabriel Valleys. If you have questions please call our patient/member support department at 800 736-7617. They can give you information about our doctors.

How do I make an appointment?
Call your physician's office directly and schedule an appointment with the office personnel. They will assist you to find an appointment that works with your schedule.

Can I select another doctor if I am not satisfied?
Yes, you can select another physician at any time. Visit our web site to see the selection of physicians in your area or call our patient/member service department, 800 736-7617, for a referral.

What if I have an urgent medical condition?
For non-life threatening medical conditions call your primary care physician immediately. He or she will instruct you where to go for urgent care. If this occurs after business hours, please call your primary care physician's office and the on-call physician will provide the necessary instructions to treat your condition or direct you to the correct facility.

How do I see a specialist?
Times may arise when you need to see a specialist. Your primary care physician will refer you to a specialist and submit an authorization to Lakeside for review. Both you and your physician will receive a copy of this referral within five business days. If your primary care physician determines you have an urgent need, Lakeside will review the referral within 24 hours and you will be notified promptly by the referring physician.

Under certain circumstances, your primary care physician may directly refer you to a specialist without waiting for approval. Just call the specialist's office listed on the written referral to make an appointment.

Also check your health insurance plan to determine what services you may receive without prior authorization. Oftentimes obstetric/gynecological services and mammograms do not need prior authorization.

Will my primary care physician take care of me when I need to go to the hospital?
When you are admitted to a hospital, your care will be overseen by one of our internal medicine physicians called hospitalists. They will be in contact with your primary care physician from the time you are admitted to when you are discharged. Our hospitalists will coordinate care with specialists, surgeons, nurses, rehabilitation programs, discharge planning, clergy and others. Upon discharge from the hospital your care will be resumed by your primary care physician.

What is the difference between my health insurance and Lakeside Medical Group?
Lakeside Medical Group is not a health insurance plan, but a medical group that contracts with health insurance plans to provide you--our member--with medical care. Your health insurance plan determines your benefit coverage. Your physician provides your medical care.