Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are you a 'boutique' or 'concierge' practice?
A: When we founded The Sheldon Sowell Center for Health in 1998 we simply asked ourselves how we'd like our own family treated, then set out to treat our patients exactly that way. As the first such practice in the nation, we were liberal in sharing our experience with other physicians. As others followed our example, these practices became known as “boutique” or “concierge.” We've come to accept these terms as convenient descriptors, but want to point out that each medical practice bears the distinct personality of the physicians who created it. Since 1998 we’ve been continuously improving and fine-tuning ours. That’s why we’re confident that your experience with us will be unique. But don’t take our word for it – come visit us and see if you agree that we’re in a category all our own.
Q: Will I see a physician's assistant or a nurse practitioner?
A: No, you will always see a physician. We believe that if a medical issue is important enough for you to seek care, it deserves the benefit of a doctor’s expertise.
Q: How do you choose specialists?
A: We want the special attention you receive from us to extend beyond our office, so should you need a specialist, we’ll recommend one based on professional qualifications, practice style, and commitment to personal attention. Since we are not bound to any particular hospital, we refer our patients to the best caregiver, whether they are right here in Colorado or at a national center like the Mayo Clinic.
Q: What if I have questions after hours?
A: Simply call the office. During holidays, evenings, and weekends your call will be transferred to the doctors’ cell phones. You can have our home number, too. Really!
Q: Can I contact the office by e-mail?
A: Of course. Many of our patients travel regularly or simply lead very busy lives, making e-mail a valuable means of communication.
Q: Do you practice holistic medicine?
A: If by holistic medicine you mean prescribing herbal or homeopathic remedies instead of antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals, we are not holistic doctors. On the other hand, we know our patients' medical histories in detail. We understand their diet, exercise regimen, and other health habits; we explore their feelings about illness and wellness; we cure them when we can and provide treatment, support, and caring when we can't. We help our patients live as long and fully as possible. To us, that is what holistic medicine is all about.
Q: How do I become a patient?
A: Schedule a time to meet our doctors and see our office. You’ll have the same experience as our current patients – on-time appointments in a tranquil setting with a doctor who cares.
