Do I need a referral to see Dr. Lalani?

Most patients do not need a referral. You can contact us directly to schedule an appointment. If your insurance plan requires a referral for out-of-network reimbursement purposes, that is between you and your insurer — but it is not required to book with us.

Do you accept insurance?

We accept straight Medicare Part B only. For all other patients, we operate on a direct-pay (cash-pay) model. We provide detailed superbills for out-of-network insurance reimbursement, and HSA and FSA accounts are accepted.

How quickly can I get an appointment?

We typically schedule new patients within 1 week of their initial contact — in many cases sooner. The average wait to see an endocrinologist in Austin is 4–8 weeks with traditional practices.

Do you offer telemedicine?

Yes. We offer telemedicine visits for patients across Texas on a flexible schedule, including evening options. We also have an in-person office in Lakeway, TX.

What is the membership plan and who is it for?

The membership plan ($150/month) is ideal for patients who need ongoing endocrinology management — such as those with diabetes, thyroid disease, or hormonal conditions. It includes ongoing care, direct access to Dr. Lalani, CGM reviews, no paperwork fees, and exclusive lab discounts. It requires a 6-month commitment and 30-day cancellation notice.

What does a new patient consultation cost?

The initial new patient consultation is $449. Follow-up visits are $275 per visit. A monthly membership plan is available at $150/month for patients needing ongoing care.

Do you treat patients coming for a second opinion?

Yes. Second opinions are welcome. The new consultation fee ($449) applies, and Dr. Lalani will conduct a comprehensive review of your records and situation.

How discounted are the lab tests?

Significantly. Through direct lab partnerships, patients often pay a fraction of what insurance-billed labs charge. Many common endocrinology lab panels that cost hundreds through insurance can be obtained for under $50.

Perimenopause / Menopause Awareness

What causes the symptoms?

Decrease in ovarian hormone production, mainly estrogen.

Symptoms/changes to expect during menopause.

Hot flashes
Night sweats
Weight gain (from 5-20 lb)
Vaginal dryness
Urinary incontinence
Decrease in libido
Irritability/moodiness
Changes in hair and skin texture

Metabolic changes during menopause (what is happening inside the body)?

Change in body fat distribution favoring gain in abdominal fat
Decreased lean muscle mass
Insulin resistance
Changes in lipid panel (increase in bad cholesterol and decrease in good cholesterol)
Increased risk of heart disease
Decrease in bone density

Recommended lifestyle, dietary changes, and supplements:

Decrease consumption of caffeine, spices and alcohol helps to decrease the intensity of hot flashes
Consume a diet rich in protein
Fresh fruits and vegetables
No/very less added sugar and processed food is very important to prevent excess weight gain and ensure good metabolic health
Adequate and good quality sleep (7-8 hours) is very important
Mindfulness and relaxation activities like yoga, meditation, Tai chi
Regular physical exercise program is very important to help bone health, stress management and insomnia
To preserve bone mass, make sure to take adequate calcium (1200 mg from diet and supplement combined) and vitamin D
Over the counter supplements like black cohosh, soy isoflavones, evening primrose oil are sometimes helpful for the same (these are not FDA approved).
Regular health check-ups and age-appropriate screenings like bone density scan, mammogram, pap smear and colonoscopy

Role of an Endocrinologist:

Your Endocrinologist can help you during this time of change, with hormonal and non-hormonal medications, to ease the transition.
Not all medications are safe for all women, this needs to be personalized. Also, appropriate dosing is important to avoid side-effects and ensure your safety.

Dr. Neha Lalani at Bluebonnet Diabetes & Endocrinology, striving to give high quality, comprehensive and personalized care for Menopause to patients. Book your appointment today by visiting our website at https://bluebonnetendocrinology.com/contact-us/ or call us at (512) 387-4224.