Alicia Bouska, PA-C – Family Physician | High Point, NC

Alicia Bouska, PA-C is a Family Physician practicing at High Point University Student Health in High Point, NC. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Alicia PA-C is registered with The North Carolina Medical Board and practices under the North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 90, Article 1 (Medical Practice Act).

Dr. Alicia PA-C is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (336) 619-8108 to inquire or schedule an appointment. Her practice focuses on providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care.

Dr. Alicia PA-C, a family medicine specialist in High Point, NC, is affiliated with Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center. She serves patients of all ages and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Alicia PA-C provides consultations primarily in English. She looks forward to supporting the health and well-being of her patients and the community.

Dr. Alicia PA-C addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Acneiform Eruption: This refers to a skin condition characterized by acne-like bumps.
• Seborrhea Capitis: This is a common skin condition causing a flaky, itchy scalp.
• Dermatomyositis: This rare condition causes muscle weakness and a skin rash.
• Herpes Zoster Oticus: This is a painful rash and nerve inflammation around the ear, caused by the chickenpox virus.
• Leukoplakia: This condition involves white patches forming on mucous membranes, often in the mouth.
• Alopecia Congenita Keratosis Palmoplantaris: This is a condition involving hair loss and thickened skin on the hands and feet present from birth.
• Nipple Conditions: This encompasses various issues affecting the skin or tissue around or on the nipples.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Alicia PA-C addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Family Physician manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how she can assist with your specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms you are experiencing, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Dr. Alicia PA-C offers a range of services to meet her patients' healthcare needs, such as:

• Venous Thrombectomy: This procedure removes a blood clot blocking blood flow in a vein.
• Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE): This painless test uses sound waves to image the heart and check for problems.
• Deep Brain Stimulation: This uses mild electrical impulses to stimulate targeted brain regions, potentially improving motor control and reducing tremors.
• Acute Stroke Therapy With Tissue Plasminogen Activator: This medication helps restore blood flow to the brain after a stroke.
• Nasal Packing for Epitaxis: This involves packing the nose to stop a nosebleed.
• Gait Analysis: This evaluates a patient's walking pattern to identify any problems.
• Percutaneous Management of Valvular Heart Disease: This procedure uses a catheter to repair a heart valve without major surgery.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Alicia PA-C. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a specialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Family Physicians in North Carolina and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The North Carolina Medical Board.

Dr. Alicia PA-C is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. Whether it's managing common concerns or pursuing preventative wellness, she helps patients set and reach meaningful goals. The following examples illustrate how this collaborative approach with Dr. Alicia PA-C can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With effective treatment, patients find relief from the persistent itching and flaking associated with seborrheic dermatitis, allowing them to confidently return to their daily lives without the constant discomfort. They can enjoy activities like socializing and wearing their favorite clothes without self-consciousness.
• With prompt treatment, patients experiencing the debilitating pain and paralysis of herpes zoster oticus found significant relief, allowing them to return to their normal activities and enjoy life without the constant burden of severe ear pain. Many were able to resume their favorite hobbies and social engagements once their symptoms subsided.
• With careful management, patients experience a significant reduction in muscle weakness and skin rash severity, enabling them to regain strength and participate more fully in the activities they enjoy. This improved quality of life allows them to pursue their passions and maintain active social lives.
• With proper management, patients experience significant relief from the discomfort of thickened skin, allowing them to participate more fully in everyday activities. Improved skin health and confidence contribute to a greater sense of well-being and normalcy.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Alicia PA-C, can achieve positive health outcomes and resume meaningful activities. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

The practice is situated in a family medicine practice in the High Point, North Carolina area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in High Point and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving High Point. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Parking options are generally accessible near the clinic; please inquire when scheduling if you have specific parking needs.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Alicia PA-C. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Alicia PA-C or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• Anthem
  • Plan: National (BlueCard), Type: PPO
• MultiPlan
  • Plan: MultiPlan PPO

Important Note on Insurance Verification:

Insurance networks and accepted plans can change frequently and without prior notice. The list above, if provided, is for general guidance only and may not be completely up-to-date or cover all specific plans within a network. It is imperative that patients personally verify that Dr. Alicia PA-C is currently an in-network provider for their specific insurance plan, and fully understand all coverage details (including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance requirements, and any need for referrals or pre-authorizations for services with Dr. Alicia PA-C) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (336) 619-8108 when you call to schedule. While our staff can assist with general insurance questions, your insurance company is the definitive source for your coverage information. Understanding your benefits ahead of time helps prevent unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Please be aware that some services, such as certain preventative screenings not covered under your specific plan, administrative forms, or non-medically necessary procedures, may not be covered by insurance and could be your financial responsibility.

Dr. Alicia PA-C may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center (Winston Salem, NC)

Dr. Alicia PA-C has completed all necessary medical education and holds current licensure. Specifics can be discussed or verified with The North Carolina Medical Board.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Alicia PA-C:

Are services from Dr. Alicia PA-C typically covered by health insurance in North Carolina?

As a Family Physician in North Carolina, Dr. Alicia PA-C likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs (patients should verify Medicaid participation directly). However, it is crucial that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with High Point University Student Health's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Alicia PA-C is 'in-network' for your plan and understand your coverage details, co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and any referral requirements for specialist visits if applicable. Some services (e.g., most cosmetic procedures, some administrative forms, non-medically necessary visits) may not be covered by insurance and could result in out-of-pocket expenses. Ask the clinic about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

Do I typically need a referral to see Dr. Alicia PA-C as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see Dr. Alicia PA-C to establish care as your Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided she is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Alicia PA-C will typically provide a referral after an assessment. Many insurance plans, particularly HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations), do require a referral from your designated PCP (Dr. Alicia PA-C, if so chosen) for specialist visits to be covered. PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans may offer more flexibility for self-referral to specialists, but this might result in higher out-of-pocket costs if the specialist is out-of-network or if a referral would have secured better coverage. Always check your specific insurance plan's referral requirements.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Alicia PA-C?

Having continuity of care with Dr. Alicia PA-C means that she is your consistent point of contact for your health needs over many years, serving as your 'medical home'. This long-term relationship allows Dr. Alicia PA-C to understand the nuances of your health, track changes over time, and provide care that is personalized and proactive. It improves communication, reduces duplication of tests and potential for conflicting medical advice, helps in managing chronic conditions more effectively, and fosters a stronger physician-patient partnership, all leading to better overall health management within the US healthcare system.

Can you explain common health insurance terms like co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance?

Certainly! A co-pay (or copayment) is a fixed amount (e.g., $25 or $50) you pay for a covered healthcare service, like a doctor's visit or a prescription, at the time of service. Your insurance plan pays the rest of the allowed amount. A deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for covered healthcare services *before* your insurance plan starts to pay its share (e.g., you might have a $1,000 annual deductible). Preventive services are often covered before meeting the deductible. Co-insurance is your share of the costs of a covered healthcare service, calculated as a percentage (e.g., 20%) of the allowed amount for the service, which you pay *after* you've met your deductible. For example, if the allowed amount is $100 and your co-insurance is 20%, you pay $20 and your insurer pays $80 (after deductible). These amounts and how they apply vary greatly by insurance plan. Dr. Alicia PA-C recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

I have multiple health problems (multimorbidity). How does Dr. Alicia PA-C handle complex care?

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of what Dr. Alicia PA-C does as your PCP. She will work with you to understand the full picture of your health, help manage various chronic diseases simultaneously, ensure your medications are optimized and appropriate, and coordinate with different specialists to ensure your care is not fragmented and that everyone on your healthcare team is informed. The goal is to provide integrated and patient-centered care that addresses all your needs effectively within the context of your insurance and overall healthcare access.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Alicia PA-C?

For most routine prescription refills, please contact your pharmacy first, ideally 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often send an electronic refill request directly to Dr. Alicia PA-C's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Alicia PA-C and the pharmacy. For certain medications (e.g., controlled substances like opioids or stimulants, or medications requiring close monitoring like blood thinners), or if it has been a significant time (e.g., as determined by Dr. Alicia PA-C, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Alicia PA-C, an appointment will likely be required to assess your condition, ensure the medication is still appropriate and at the correct dose, and meet regulatory requirements. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization for certain medications, which our office can help initiate, but this can add time. It is always best to request refills proactively and not wait until you are completely out of medication.

What exactly is a Family Physician (Family Physician) and what is their role in the US healthcare system?

Your Family Physician (Family Physician) is your primary healthcare provider in the US, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues. She manage acute illnesses, oversee care for long-term chronic diseases, provide routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling (often part of annual wellness visits or Medicare Annual Wellness Visits for seniors), administer vaccinations, and ensure you get access to specialized medical services through referrals, often navigating insurance requirements. The continuity of care she provide, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine and can lead to better health outcomes.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when High Point University Student Health is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency (such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, or major trauma), please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ER) immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until High Point University Student Health reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like High Point University Student Health, may have an on-call physician or an answering service that can direct you to appropriate care or provide advice for urgent patient queries after hours; please check our clinic voicemail [(336) 619-8108] or website for specific after-hours instructions. Your insurance plan may also offer a 24/7 nurse advice line that can help you determine the best course of action.

High Point University Student Health
1300 N University Pkwy
High Point NC 27262
Phone: (336) 619-8108

Alicia Bouska, PA-C is regulated by the North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 90, Article 1 (Medical Practice Act) in North Carolina and is licensed by The North Carolina Medical Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1538335260

Registration can typically be verified through The North Carolina Medical Board website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Family Physicians like Dr. Alicia PA-C are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your Family Physician about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners or specialists.