Q: What is the difference between the Southern Institute for Women’s Sexual Health (SIWSH) and a typical gynecology visit?
A: A typical SIWSH appointment is much more intensive and thorough than a normal gynecological visit, with Dr. Williams spending at least three times as long with each of her patients. With the over-reaching and intrusive role of insurance companies removed, Dr. Williams freely decides the best course of action and treatment plan for each patient without the usually constraints imposed by insurance companies. 

 
Q: What can I expect with the typical first visit?
A: Allot for 1 – 2 hours for the initial appointment where Dr. Williams reviews the questionnaire, performs a pelvic evaluation which includes a variety of tests, including a vulvoscopy (examination of the area around the vagina under a microscope), a physical exam, and possible culture to test for infection. After reviewing the results of the tests, Dr. Williams recommends a plan of care (POC).

 
Q: How are out of town patients seen?
A: For those who are traveling, SIWSH offers a single, all-inclusive visit to eliminate the need for multiple trips. Prior to the visit, all blood work and questionnaires will need to be completed. Then, the visit will include all exams and tests with Dr. Williams creating the most thorough POC at the end of the visit.
 

Q: What symptoms do you treat?
A: Please reference the Symptoms page.
 

Q: What conditions do you treat?
A: Please reference the Conditions page.
 

Q: Where are you located?
A: There are two locations: SIWSH at Center for Restorative Breast Surgery, 1717 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130; SIWSH at Center for Women’s Health, 104 Innwood Dr, Covington, LA 70433
 

Q: Do you accept my insurance?
A: Reimbursement by insurance companies varies according to your plan. SIWSH does not bill insurance companies. At the end of the visit, patients can receive a Walk-Out Statement containing the applicable diagnoses and billing codes which can be submitted to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Most insurance companies do not approve of the additional time and resources that are necessary to create an effective Plan of Care, although when patients submit expenses directly to their insurance company, most insurance companies reimburse the patients 50% of the out-of-pocket expenses.
 

Q: Who do I call or contact to get answers to financial questions?
A: Our staff is committed to clear communication and transparency every step of the way. If you have questions about fees, contact Aimee at appointments@siwsh.com or (985) 871-0707.
 

Q: Where are the pre-visit forms?
A: The Registration Form can be found here,  Initial Questionnaire Form can be found here, and the Distress Form can be found here.
 

Q: How do I request more information?
A: Please complete the New Patient Information Request form.
 

Q: How do I schedule an appointment?
A: Call (985) 871-0707, email Aimee at appointments@siwsh.com, or complete the New Patient Information Request Form.
 

Q: How do I request or send medical records?
A: To request SIWSH records to be sent to another doctor or for information on how to send past medical records to SIWSH, please call (985) 871-0707 or email Aimee at appointments@siwsh.com.