Dr. Alicia Zhou, DO – Family Physician | Concord, CA

Dr. Alicia Zhou, DO is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Concord, CA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Medical Board of California (MBC) and practices under the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 5 (Medical Practice Act).

Please note: Dr. Alicia Zhou is not currently accepting new patients. You may wish to check back periodically for updates or contact (925) 677-0500 to inquire about potential future openings or waitlists.

Dr. Alicia Zhou provides 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 is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Alicia Zhou provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Alicia Zhou strives to create a welcoming environment and looks forward to serving the healthcare needs of the community. Her dedication is to ensure patients receive the best possible care and support in managing their health and well-being.

Dr. Alicia Zhou addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Anemia: This condition involves a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to fatigue and weakness.
• Acute Lower Respiratory Infection: This is a common infection affecting the lungs, often causing coughing, shortness of breath, and fever.
• Joint Pain: This can stem from various causes, including arthritis, injury, or overuse, and is often treated with pain management and physical therapy.
• Long COVID Disorder: This refers to lingering symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, which can vary widely among individuals.
• Vitamin B Deficiency: A lack of essential B vitamins can lead to various health problems, including fatigue and neurological issues.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints, causing pain and stiffness.
• Diaper Rash: Irritation and inflammation of the skin in the diaper area, often caused by moisture and friction.
• Rash: A skin eruption characterized by redness, swelling, or other changes in skin texture.
• Obesity: A condition characterized by excessive body fat, often associated with increased health risks.
• Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome: This involves persistent pain without a clear underlying cause.
• Malnutrition: An imbalance of essential nutrients, leading to health problems.
• Chest Pain: Chest pain can have various causes, some serious, requiring thorough evaluation.
• Painful Urination (Dysuria): Pain or discomfort during urination, often indicating a urinary tract infection.
• Wheezing: A whistling sound during breathing, often associated with airway narrowing.

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

• Ovarian Cancer Screening: This involves tests to detect ovarian cancer early, improving treatment outcomes.
• Nail Avulsion and Excision: Surgical removal of a toenail or fingernail.
• Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: A procedure to drain pus or fluid from an abscess.
• Hepatitis Screening: Testing for the presence of hepatitis viruses.
• STD Screening: Testing for sexually transmitted infections.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: A blood test to detect the hepatitis C virus.
• Detoxification Evaluation: Assessment of the need for detoxification from drugs or alcohol.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): A test that measures the electrical activity of the heart.
• Bacteriuria Screening: Testing for bacteria in the urine.
• Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: Assessment and guidance for alcohol or substance abuse.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: Tests to detect signs of dementia or depression.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: An online assessment of cardiovascular risk factors.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: Screening and support for problematic alcohol use.
• Trichomoniasis Screening: Testing for the parasitic infection trichomoniasis.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Alicia Zhou. 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 California and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Medical Board of California (MBC).

Dr. Alicia Zhou 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 Zhou can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With proper treatment, patients experiencing painful urination find relief and are able to resume their normal daily activities without discomfort or interruption. This allows them to return to work, social events, and other aspects of life previously impacted by their symptoms.
• With the right treatment, babies suffering from diaper rash experience significant relief from discomfort, allowing them to sleep better and be more content. Parents can then enjoy more peaceful moments and focus on the joys of parenting.
• With proper treatment, patients experiencing vitamin B deficiency often see a significant improvement in their energy levels and neurological function. This allows them to return to their normal activities and enjoy a higher quality of life.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Alicia Zhou, 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 located in a convenient family medicine practice in the Concord, California area, near key city attractions and public services. It is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Concord. 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 Zhou. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Alicia Zhou or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• ADVANTAGE Health Solutions, Inc.
  • Plan: Advantage Health Solutions, Type: HMO
• Aetna
  • Plan: AWH Northern CA, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS II
  • Plan: Deductible Plan CA Members Only, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Elect Choice (Open Access), Type: EPO
  • Plan: Managed Choice (Open Access), Type: POS
  • Plan: Open Choice, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
• Anthem Blue Cross
  • Plan: Anthem Blue Connection, Type: EPO
  • Plan: California Care Large Group, Type: HMO
  • Plan: California Care Small Group, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Pathway, Type: EPO
  • Plan: Prudent Buyer Individual CA, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Prudent Buyer Large Group CA, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Prudent Buyer Small Group CA, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card High Performance Network, Type: HPN
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of California
  • Plan: Advantage Preferred DirectAccess Plus, Type: PPO
• Blue Shield of California
  • Plan: Access Plus Savenet, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Access Plus, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Bronze Full 4500, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Local Access Plus, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Platinum Access+ 25, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Platinum Local Access + HMO 25, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Trio ACO, Type: HMO
• Canopy Health
  • Plan: Canopy Health HMO
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Health Net
  • Plan: CA Employer Group Plans, Type: HMO
  • Plan: CA Healthnet, Type: PPO
  • Plan: CA WholeCare Network, Type: HMO
  • Plan: SmartCare Network Large Group, Type: HMO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
  • Plan: National, Type: POS
• Oscar Health
  • Plan: Northern CA Cigna + Oscar LocalPlus, Type: EPO
  • Plan: Northern CA Cigna + Oscar Open Access Plus, Type: EPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Medica Choice
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: POS
  • Plan: Nexus Open Access
  • Plan: Options, Type: PPO
  • Plan: SignatureValue - CA, Type: HMO

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 Zhou 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 Zhou) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (925) 677-0500 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 Zhou may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• John Muir Medical Center Concord (Concord, CA)
• John Muir Medical Center Walnut Creek (Walnut Creek, CA)

She is Board Certified in Family Practice by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Alicia Zhou:

Are services from Dr. Alicia Zhou typically covered by health insurance in California?

As a Family Physician in California, Dr. Alicia Zhou 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 imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (925) 677-0500 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Alicia Zhou is 'in-network' for your plan and to understand your specific 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. Please ask the clinic about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Alicia Zhou 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 Zhou 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 Zhou, 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.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Alicia Zhou?

For every appointment with Dr. Alicia Zhou, please bring your current health insurance card(s) and a valid photo ID (like a driver's license). It is also very helpful to bring an up-to-date list of all your current medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, along with their dosages and why you take them. If you have them, any relevant medical records, recent test results (blood work, imaging reports from other facilities), or letters from other doctors can be useful, especially if you are seeing Dr. Alicia Zhou for the first time or for a specific complex problem. Having a written list of your questions or concerns can also help ensure you cover everything you need to during your visit. Be prepared to pay any co-payment or deductible amount as required by your insurance plan at the time of service.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Alicia Zhou?

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 Zhou's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Alicia Zhou 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 Zhou, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Alicia Zhou, 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 does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Alicia Zhou in the US?

Preventative care with Dr. Alicia Zhou focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious, often guided by recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), CDC, and other national bodies like the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (annual physicals or wellness visits, often covered by insurance without co-pay), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests/HPV, mammograms, colon cancer screening, lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals), immunizations (flu shots, shingles, pneumococcal, Tdap), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes and obesity, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early, and promote long-term health.

Does Dr. Alicia Zhou at your clinic offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Alicia Zhou at our clinic may offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate, permitted by state regulations, and covered by your insurance plan. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, certain prescription renewals (not typically for new controlled substances), or some mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions, new significant problems, or situations requiring a physical examination (like listening to your heart/lungs or examining a rash) will still necessitate an in-person visit for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Alicia Zhou if a telehealth appointment might be suitable for your specific needs. Insurance coverage, co-pays, and deductibles for telehealth visits can vary significantly by plan and insurer; please verify with your insurance provider and our clinic regarding your specific plan's coverage for telehealth services with Dr. Alicia Zhou before scheduling such an appointment.

How often should I see Dr. Alicia Zhou for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups, often called annual physicals or preventive wellness visits, with Dr. Alicia Zhou can vary based on your age, overall health, existing medical conditions, and specific risk factors. Many insurance plans in the US cover one annual preventive visit for adults with no co-pay. Generally, healthy younger adults may still benefit from regular check-ins (e.g., every 1-3 years if no major concerns, but an annual visit is often encouraged if covered by insurance), while older adults (e.g., annually, especially for Medicare Annual Wellness Visits), or individuals with chronic conditions (diabetes, hypertension) typically require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-6 months or annually, as determined by Dr. Alicia Zhou). For specific screening tests like Pap smears, mammograms, or colonoscopies, there are established national guidelines (USPSTF, ACS, ACOG) based on age and gender which Dr. Alicia Zhou follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Alicia Zhou to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care.

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in California 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 California Medical Board website may sometimes have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, and contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups, as they often have affiliated family physicians who are accepting new patients and can provide lists of accepted insurances. Finding a doctor can be challenging; be persistent! Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling the first appointment.

2700 Grant St Ste 200
Concord CA 94520
Phone: (925) 677-0500

Dr. Alicia Zhou, DO is regulated by the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 5 (Medical Practice Act) in California and is licensed by The Medical Board of California (MBC).

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1548614217

Registration can typically be verified through The Medical Board of California (MBC) 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 Zhou 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.