Below is a list of some of the frequently asked questions we commonly receive. If you do not find an answer to your questions please reach out to us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you travel to my state?
Yes, Sigma Tactical Wellness provides mobile cardiac screening at the department/employer’s location of choice. The Sigma deployment team travels for department/combined department screenings of 100 patients or more.
Do you use insurance?
We do not use insurance. We have found that using insurance reimbursement can (and will) result in co-pays, patient out-of-pocket, and potential patient responsibilities (especially if the screening participant uses a spouse’s insurance product).
When insurance companies reimburse, they do so in exchange for the data we collect. If additional risk is exposed, it can be used to impact insurance premiums across the spectrum of personnel.
Some insurance companies will issue “wellness dollars” to support outsourced health initiatives, usually in the form of a physical or yearly visit. This amount does not usually cover the entire program, but definitely off- sets some of the cost. Cigna, Aetna and AFLAC are examples of carriers we have seen offer programs like this.
How do I access my patient portal/records?
You can access your patient portal by time zone here:
PST:
https://patientportal.advancedmd.com/136728/account/logon
MST:
https://patientportal.advancedmd.com/151642/account/logon
CST:
https://patientportal.advancedmd.com/153635/account/logon
EST:
https://patientportal.advancedmd.com/153637/account/logon
Patient files will be uploaded to your patient portal upon completion of the Sigma Tactical Wellness Flagship Program
My department currently offers a physical/ heart health screening (calcium score, etc.) How is this program different?
Sigma Tactical Wellness has pioneered a new system of cardiac/metabolic screening correlating known risk factors, genetics, and occupational stressors that are characteristic of law-enforcement. Sigma Tactical Wellness is the only company to use this approach AND deliver the results in an on-site manner, free from the encumbrance of insurers that would financially complicate the patient experience via deductibles, co-pays, and unforeseen out of pocket expense.
The only other cardiac screening options on the market do not have the extensive battery of diagnostics SIGMA provides on site and do not address metabolics as components of heart health and weight management. The option of using a healthcare facility off-site, removes the convenience of testing done at the agency, will add additional PTO and complicate the process by having to bill through insurance.
How long do I need to fast before my blood draw?
We require our patients to fast at least 8 hours and recommend hydrating with plenty of water prior to their blood draw.
Is this for individuals or departments?
Currently, our screening teams deploy to employers/ departments. If you are an individual looking to participate in a screening, please contact us at https://iamsigma.com/contact/ to discuss joining an upcoming screening in your area.
Do you work with Retired Law Enforcement?
Yes, we offer screening to retired law enforcement, civilian staff and spouses
Can I use HSA/FSA to cover costs?
Yes, patients often use HSA/FSA to cover the cost of the program.
Is this information shared with anyone or my department?
No, all individual medical data collected through Sigma’s screening process is privacy- protected, secure, compliant with HIPAA regulations and will not be shared with any individual or organization. The only person who has access to this information is the patient themselves. Sigma Tactical Wellness will provide employers with an Aggregate Data Report containing generalized findings, but that information is never individualized.
If I have questions about my results, who do I contact?
Please contact us at hello@iamsigma.com
Where can I find more information (cost, program breakdown, funding methods, etc.?)
For additional information and inquiries, please reach out to a member of our team at: https://iamsigma.com/contact/
What do I do after visiting with a Sigma Tactical Wellness clinician/ receiving my patient file?
During your visit with a Sigma Tactical Wellness clinician, you will discuss a clear plan to address any concerns and recommendations. You will be able to take your patient file (available in your patient portal) to your primary care provider, specialist, etc. to continue further care.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you must cancel or reschedule your appointment, Sigma respectfully requests at least 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations or missed appointments without 24 hour notice will result in a rescheduling fee of $25 per patient.
I am having trouble viewing my file in the Sigma Patient Portal.
You will not be able to view the entire file on your cell phone. You will need to access the patient portal from a desktop to view your entire patient file.
I am having technical issues with my tele-health appointment.
It is recommended that you use Google Chrome for telehealth appointments. Please also ensure that you have a working and updated camera and microphone on the device you are using for your visit.