Arroyo Seco Medical Group is expanding its successful concierge medicine program, a personalized approach to healthcare that emphasizes wellness and prevention. Beginning Oct. 3, Andrew Muller, M.D., will join Patricia Ng, M.D., in offering this unique approach to the traditional physician-patient relationship.

Like Dr. Ng, Dr. Muller will limit the size of his practice in order to provide a focus on preventive care that is generally not available in a larger practice setting. Anyone interested in joining Dr. Muller's new practice is invited to attend an open house on Sept. 29 from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Arroyo Seco office (301 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Suite 101 in Pasadena).

"Since initiating concierge medicine almost one year ago, we have had an enormous response and interest in this kind of personalized service," said Earl Bernard, chief executive officer of Arroyo Seco Medical Group. "We knew that judging by that positive patient feedback, it was time to expand our concierge medicine program."

The smaller size of a concierge practice allows for same- or next-day appointments, enhanced coordination of necessary referrals, physician availability 24/7 via personal pager, prescription facilitation, insurance claims facilitation, travel medical services, a private reception area and reciprocity with a nationwide network of physicians.

"I have always been dedicated to practicing medicine in a way that works for my patients and their families," said Dr. Muller. "For that reason, I am particularly enthusiastic about furthering my responsibility to personalized treatment by taking part in concierge medicine."

Patients enrolled in the concierge practice receive a comprehensive annual physical examination, including laboratory and other diagnostic testing. The patient and physician then develop a wellness plan based upon the results of the physical examination and the individual goals of the patient. Patients also receive a personalized mini CD-ROM containing their medical history and related information. The cost to participate is $150 per month. This can be paid through corporate benefit plans, including flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and medical savings accounts (MSAs).

Dr. Muller currently practices in Arroyo Seco‰Û(tm)s Glendale office located at 1808 Verdugo Blvd. Beginning Oct. 3, when he officially opens his concierge practice, he will be in the Pasadena office in a private suite custom designed for this unique program.

To reserve a space at the open house, please call (626) 585-4500.

Arroyo Seco Medical Group (ASMG) has been serving the Greater San Gabriel Valley area for more than a quarter of a century. In addition to providing primary medical care, ASMG offers services and programs that promote health education and wellness; diabetes, cholesterol and osteoporosis management programs; concierge medicine; and opportunities to participate in clinical studies. ASMG has offices in three locations "Arcadia, Glendale and Pasadena" and accepts most major health plans. For more information, visit www.arroyoseco.net. For further information about joining the concierge medicine practice, call (866) 696-3847.