Dr. Austin O’Brien, MD – Family Physician | Lowell, MA

Dr. Austin O'Brien, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Lowell, MA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Austin O'Brien is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (978) 459-8447 to inquire or schedule an appointment.

His 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. He serves patients of all ages and is registered with The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, practicing under the Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112 (Registration of Certain Professions and Occupations).

Dr. Austin O'Brien, MD is a family medicine physician in Lowell, MA, affiliated with Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington and Parkland Medical Center. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. He provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Austin O'Brien and his team believe in the philosophy of providing care that prioritizes the patient's well-being, providing access to board-certified specialists and a full continuum of care. He is committed to the health and well-being of his patients and the Lowell community.

Dr. Austin O'Brien addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Anemia: This condition is characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, resulting in fatigue and weakness.
• Hypokalemia: This refers to a lower than normal level of potassium in the blood, often causing muscle weakness or fatigue.
• Osteoporosis: This involves a decrease in bone mass, making bones more prone to fractures.
• All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Management often involves identifying triggers and utilizing various treatment options to reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
• Bladder Infection: This common infection is typically treated with antibiotics.
• Osteoarthritis of Hip and Thigh: This degenerative joint disease causes pain and stiffness in the hip and thigh.
• Osteoarthritis of Hand: This condition affects the joints in the hand, causing pain and reduced mobility.
• Viral Infection: These infections are usually self-limiting, but supportive care may be necessary.
• Secondary Renovascular Hypertension: This type of hypertension is caused by kidney disease.
• Herpes Simplex Infection: This viral infection can cause sores on the skin or mucous membranes.
• Muscle Cramping: This can be caused by various factors, and treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause.
• Tremor: This involuntary shaking can have various causes, requiring a thorough evaluation.
• Pneumonia: This lung infection can range in severity and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
• Abdominal Pain: This symptom can indicate a wide range of conditions, requiring careful assessment.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Austin O'Brien 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 he 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. Austin O'Brien offers a range of services to meet his patients' healthcare needs, such as:

• Joint Fluid Test: This test analyzes fluid from a joint to help diagnose conditions like arthritis.
• Independent Educational Evaluation: This comprehensive evaluation assesses a child's learning needs and abilities.
• Detoxification Evaluation: This assessment helps determine the need for and type of detoxification treatment.
• Smoking Cessation Counseling: This service helps patients quit smoking through counseling and support.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This test measures lipid levels in blood samples from patients receiving ventilation.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: These screenings help identify potential cognitive or mood disorders.
• Tuberculosis Screening: This screening helps detect the presence of tuberculosis.
• Cancer Screening: Various screenings are available to detect different types of cancer.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: This evaluation assesses psychological readiness for bariatric surgery.
• Skin Screenings: These screenings help detect skin cancer or other skin conditions.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: This screening and counseling helps address alcohol misuse.
• Herpes Simplex Screening: This screening helps detect the presence of herpes simplex virus.
• Patch Testing: This test identifies allergens causing allergic contact dermatitis.
• HIV Screening: This screening detects the presence of HIV antibodies.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Austin O'Brien. 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 Massachusetts and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine.

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

• Patients experiencing hypokalemia find relief through careful monitoring and treatment, allowing them to regain their energy levels and resume their normal activities without the debilitating fatigue and muscle weakness. Improved potassium levels often lead to a better quality of life and the ability to participate fully in daily life.
• With careful management, patients often see improvements in bone density and a reduced risk of fractures. This allows them to maintain their mobility and enjoy an active lifestyle with greater confidence.
• With effective treatment, patients find relief from their abdominal pain, allowing them to return to their normal activities and enjoy life without discomfort. This improved comfort level often leads to a greater sense of well-being and improved quality of life.

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

The practice is located in a family medicine practice in the Lowell, Massachusetts area, conveniently situated near key city attractions and public services. It is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Lowell. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Patients usually find parking readily available in the vicinity of the practice.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Austin O'Brien. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Austin O'Brien 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
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• 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. Austin O'Brien 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. Austin O'Brien) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (978) 459-8447 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. Austin O'Brien may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington (Burlington, MA)
• Parkland Medical Center (Derry, NH)

He earned his medical degree from Facof Med Memorial Univof Newfoundland. He completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at Memorial University Canada.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Austin O'Brien:

Are services from Dr. Austin O'Brien typically covered by health insurance in Massachusetts?

Dr. Austin O'Brien, as a Family Physician in Massachusetts, 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 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Austin O'Brien 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. Austin O'Brien as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Austin O'Brien to establish care as your Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided he is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Austin O'Brien 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. Austin O'Brien, 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.

Does Dr. Austin O'Brien at your clinic offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Austin O'Brien 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. Austin O'Brien 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. Austin O'Brien before scheduling such an appointment.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Austin O'Brien in the US?

Preventative care with Dr. Austin O'Brien 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.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Austin O'Brien?

Continuity of care refers to the process where your Family Physician, Dr. Austin O'Brien, sees you for your health needs on an ongoing basis, rather than seeing different doctors for different issues. This consistency is valuable because Dr. Austin O'Brien 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.

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

A Family Physician, often your Primary Care Physician (PCP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages u2013 from newborns to seniors. In the US healthcare system, He serve as your main point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like wellness visits, immunizations, health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and navigate the complexities of the US healthcare system.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Austin O'Brien?

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. Austin O'Brien's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Austin O'Brien 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. Austin O'Brien, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Austin O'Brien, 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.

How long do appointments with Dr. Austin O'Brien typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Austin O'Brien can vary depending on the reason for your visit. Standard appointments for a single, focused issue or a routine follow-up are often scheduled for 15-20 minutes. Appointments for more complex issues, a comprehensive 'annual physical' or 'preventive wellness visit' (especially Medicare Annual Wellness Visits, which have specific components), a new patient intake appointment, in-depth counseling, or an in-office minor procedure will usually be scheduled for a longer duration, perhaps 30-45 minutes or even more. When booking your appointment at the clinic, it's always best to briefly mention the reason for your visit so the staff can try to allocate the appropriate amount of time with Dr. Austin O'Brien. If you have multiple unrelated issues to discuss, you might be advised to book a longer appointment or schedule separate visits to ensure each concern can be addressed thoroughly without rushing.

595 Pawtucket Blvd Ste 2
Lowell MA 01854
Phone: (978) 459-8447

Dr. Austin O'Brien, MD is regulated by the Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112 (Registration of Certain Professions and Occupations) in Massachusetts and is licensed by The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1104808138

Registration can typically be verified through The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine 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. Austin O'Brien 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.