Dana Mueller, FNP – Family Physician | Columbia, IL

Dana Mueller, FNP is a Family Physician practicing at BJC Medical Group at Columbia, IL in Columbia, IL. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Dana FNP is registered with The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board and practices under the Illinois Compiled Statutes, Chapter 225, Act 60 (Medical Practice Act of 1987).

Dr. Dana FNP is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (618) 281-7373 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. She serves patients of all ages.

Dr. Dana FNP is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner who provides primary medical care including diagnosis, treatment and preventative care. Her approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships to ensure the best possible outcomes. Dr. Dana FNP provides consultations primarily in English. She is committed to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.

Dr. Dana FNP addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Osteoarthritis: This condition involves the breakdown of cartilage in joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Obesity: Obesity is characterized by excessive body fat accumulation, increasing the risk of various health problems.
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): COPD is a group of lung diseases that block airflow to the lungs, causing shortness of breath and other symptoms.
• Hyperlipidemia: Hyperlipidemia refers to high levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland, resulting in a slowed metabolism and various health issues.
• Back Pain: Back pain can stem from various causes, including muscle strains, spinal problems, or nerve compression.
• Fever: Fever, an elevated body temperature, is often a symptom of infection or illness.
• Anxiety: Anxiety disorders involve excessive fear and worry, affecting daily life and well-being.
• Anemia: Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin.
• Hypertension: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Arthritis: Arthritis encompasses various joint disorders causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
• Dyslipidemia: Dyslipidemia involves abnormal levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood.
• Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain can indicate various problems, ranging from indigestion to more serious conditions.
• Low Back Pain: Low back pain is a common ailment with various potential underlying causes.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Dana FNP 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. Dana FNP offers a range of services to meet her patients' healthcare needs, such as:

• Diabetes Counseling: Provides guidance and support for managing diabetes and improving overall health.
• Thyroid Screening: Checks thyroid hormone levels to detect potential thyroid disorders.
• Wellness Examination: A comprehensive check-up to assess overall health and identify potential risks.
• Physical Exams for Sports: Evaluates athletes' fitness and health for sports participation.
• School Physicals: Provides required physical examinations for school enrollment.
• Chronic Care Management: Ongoing care for patients with chronic health conditions.
• Sports Physical Examination: A focused examination to ensure fitness for sports participation.
• Immunization Administration: Provides various vaccines to protect against infectious diseases.
• School and Summer Camp: Offers physicals and health assessments for school and summer camp participation.
• Diabetes Screening: Tests for diabetes and related conditions.
• Cholesterol Screening: Checks cholesterol levels to assess cardiovascular health.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Dana FNP. 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 Illinois and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board.

Dr. Dana FNP 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. Dana FNP can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With prompt treatment, patients quickly reduce their fever and alleviate discomfort, allowing them to return to their normal activities and feel better overall.
• Through careful management of their hyperlipidemia, patients often see significant improvements in their cholesterol levels, reducing their risk of heart disease and allowing them to enjoy a more active and fulfilling life. Many are able to participate in activities they previously avoided due to health concerns.
• Many patients find that a structured weight-management program helps them achieve a healthier weight, leading to increased energy levels and the ability to participate more fully in activities they enjoy.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Dana FNP, 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.

This family medicine practice is conveniently located in the Columbia, Illinois area, near key city attractions and public services. It is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Columbia. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Convenient patient parking is typically available nearby or on-site.

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

• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO
  • Plan: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
  • Plan: Blue Preferred Plus, Type: POS
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care, 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. Dana FNP 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. Dana FNP) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (618) 281-7373 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. Dana FNP may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Memorial Hospital Belleville (Belleville, IL)

She earned her medical degree from University of Missouri - St. Louis.

Are services from Dr. Dana FNP typically covered by health insurance in Illinois?

As a Family Physician in Illinois, Dr. Dana FNP 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 absolutely essential that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with BJC Medical Group at Columbia, IL's office at (618) 281-7373 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Dana FNP is "in-network" for your plan and to understand your specific coverage details, including 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. Please ask the clinic about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

Do I typically need a referral to see Dr. Dana FNP as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Dana FNP 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. Dana FNP 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. Dana FNP, 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 the referral requirements of your specific insurance plan.

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. Dana FNP recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

What happens if Dr. Dana FNP determines I need to see a medical specialist?

As your Family Physician/PCP, Dr. Dana FNP acts as your primary care coordinator. If she believes your condition requires specialized assessment or treatment, she will explain why a specialist consultation is necessary and will arrange the referral. This process will consider your insurance plan's requirements for specialist referrals and in-network providers. Dr. Dana FNP will send your pertinent medical details to the specialist. It's important to keep BJC Medical Group at Columbia, IL informed of any specialist appointments you attend and any new diagnoses or treatments recommended by the specialist so Dr. Dana FNP can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively and maintain a complete medical record.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Dana FNP?

Continuity of care refers to the process where your Family Physician, Dr. Dana FNP, sees you for your health needs on an ongoing basis, rather than seeing different doctors for different issues. This consistency is valuable because Dr. Dana FNP becomes familiar with your medical background, your lifestyle, and what's 'normal' for you. This knowledge aids in quicker diagnosis, more effective treatment plans, better chronic disease management, and ensures that your care is well-coordinated, especially important when dealing with multiple specialists or navigating complex insurance plans. It's about having a trusted healthcare partner throughout your life who understands your complete health picture.

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in Illinois who is accepting new patients and takes my insurance?

First, check your health insurance plan's "Find a Doctor" or "Provider Directory" tool (often available online or via their member services phone number) to find in-network PCPs. This is the most reliable way to ensure coverage. You can also use the "Physician Finder" tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The Illinois Medical Board (or Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board) website may have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups for lists of affiliated family physicians. It can be challenging, so be persistent, and always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling your first appointment.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Dana FNP?

Your first appointment will involve a review of your medical history (past illnesses, surgeries, hospitalizations, allergies, immunizations, family health history), discussion of current health concerns, medications (bring the bottles or a list), and lifestyle habits. A basic physical examination may be performed. You'll have a chance to ask questions about Dr. Dana FNP's practice and clinic policies (appointment scheduling, refills, communication, billing, missed appointment fees). Bring your insurance card(s), photo ID, and complete new patient paperwork. The goal is to gather comprehensive baseline information for optimal ongoing care and build a strong physician-patient relationship.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Dana FNP in the US?

Preventative care means proactive steps to maintain your health and prevent future illness. This includes scheduled immunizations (flu, pneumonia, shingles, etc.), screenings for diseases (based on USPSTF recommendations), discussions about lifestyle modifications (nutrition, physical activity, substance use), and regular health assessments. Dr. Dana FNP helps create a personalized prevention plan, many components of which may be covered by your health insurance without cost-sharing.

BJC Medical Group at Columbia, IL
200 Admiral Trost Rd Ste 1A
Columbia IL 62236
Phone: (618) 281-7373

Dana Mueller, FNP is regulated by the Illinois Compiled Statutes, Chapter 225, Act 60 (Medical Practice Act of 1987) in Illinois and is licensed by The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1447651708

Registration can typically be verified through The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing 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. Dana FNP 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.