Dr. Carla Podgurecki, MD – Family Physician | Fort Worth, TX

Dr. Carla Podgurecki, MD is a Family Physician practicing at City of Fort Worth Employee Health Center - Magnolia in Fort Worth, TX. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Texas Medical Board and practices under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act).

Dr. Carla Podgurecki is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (817) 870-9990 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. Carla Podgurecki assists her patients to achieve optimal health through disease prevention and lifestyle change. With each encounter, she looks at each patient as a whole, utilizing all appropriate therapeutic approaches and disciplines to provide the best care possible. She is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Carla Podgurecki offers consultations in Spanish. Dr. Podgurecki looks forward to partnering with her patients to achieve lasting health and wellness.

Dr. Carla Podgurecki addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Chronic Neck Pain: This condition involves persistent pain in the neck, often stemming from muscle strain, injury, or underlying medical issues.
• Sciatica: Sciatica is characterized by pain radiating down the leg from the lower back, typically caused by compression of the sciatic nerve.
• Limb Pain: Limb pain can originate from various sources, including muscle strains, nerve damage, or underlying conditions affecting bones or joints.
• Tonsillitis: Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to sore throat and difficulty swallowing.
• All Types of Food Poisoning: Food poisoning results from consuming contaminated food or drinks, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Thyroid Goiter: A goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, potentially caused by iodine deficiency, inflammation, or other factors.
• Tobacco Use Disorder: Tobacco use disorder is a chronic condition characterized by nicotine addiction, requiring tailored cessation strategies.
• Hyperlipidemia: Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of fats (lipids) in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): DVT involves blood clots forming in the deep veins, usually in the legs, posing a risk of pulmonary embolism.
• Carotid Artery Stenosis: Carotid artery stenosis is the narrowing of the carotid arteries, reducing blood flow to the brain and increasing stroke risk.
• Gynecologic Disorders: Gynecologic disorders encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the female reproductive system.
• Alzheimer's Disease: Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder causing memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes.
• Mastodynia: Mastodynia, or breast pain, can have various causes, including hormonal changes, cysts, or underlying medical conditions.
• Symptomatic Menopause: Symptomatic menopause involves experiencing bothersome symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes during the transition to menopause.

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

• Fetal Cardiac Screening: This involves non-invasive tests to assess the health of a baby's heart during pregnancy.
• Health Screening: Regular health screenings help identify potential health problems early on, improving treatment outcomes.
• Thyroid Screening: Thyroid screenings evaluate thyroid function, detecting potential hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
• Colon Cancer Screening: Colon cancer screenings aim to detect colon polyps or early-stage colon cancer, improving survival rates.
• Primary Care for Adults: Comprehensive primary care for adults covers preventative care, chronic disease management, and acute illness treatment.
• Tuberculosis Screening: Tuberculosis screenings detect latent or active tuberculosis infection, preventing transmission.
• Prostate Cancer Screening: Prostate cancer screenings help detect prostate cancer early, improving treatment options.
• Mole Evaluation: Mole evaluations assess moles for signs of skin cancer, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.
• Obesity Counseling: Obesity counseling helps patients develop healthy lifestyle changes to manage their weight and improve overall health.
• Bone Density Scan: Bone density scans assess bone health, detecting potential osteoporosis or osteopenia.
• Gonorrhea Screening: Gonorrhea screenings detect gonorrhea infections, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing complications.
• Pregnancy Test: Pregnancy tests confirm pregnancy, allowing for early prenatal care.
• Well Woman Health Examination: Well woman health examinations provide comprehensive preventative care for women, addressing various health needs.
• Irrigation of Ear: Ear irrigation cleans the ear canal, removing impacted earwax or debris.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Carla Podgurecki. 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 Texas and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Texas Medical Board.

Dr. Carla Podgurecki 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. Carla Podgurecki can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With 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. This positive change often translates to increased energy levels and the ability to pursue favorite activities with greater confidence.
• With effective management, many women find their menopausal symptoms significantly reduced, allowing them to enjoy a better quality of life and pursue their passions without the daily struggles of hot flashes, sleep disturbances, or mood swings. They regain a sense of vitality and control over their well-being.
• With effective management of their gynecologic disorders, patients often experience significant relief from discomfort and a return to their normal daily activities. This allows them to pursue their passions and enjoy a higher quality of life.

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

• Aetna
  • Plan: APCN Choice, Type: POS II
  • Plan: Elect Choice (Open Access), Type: EPO
  • Plan: Managed Choice (Open Access), Type: POS
  • Plan: Signature Administrators, Type: PPO
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Navigate Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Nexus Open Access
  • Plan: Options, Type: 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. Carla Podgurecki 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. Carla Podgurecki) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (817) 870-9990 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. Carla Podgurecki may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southwest Fort Worth (Fort Worth, TX)
• Texas Health Fort Worth (Fort Worth, TX)
• Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas (Dallas, TX)

She earned her medical degree from American University of Antigua. Following medical school, she undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Hofstra North Shore, honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

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. Carla Podgurecki:

Are services from Dr. Carla Podgurecki typically covered by health insurance in Texas?

As a Family Physician in Texas, Dr. Carla Podgurecki 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 City of Fort Worth Employee Health Center - Magnolia's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Carla Podgurecki 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. Carla Podgurecki as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Carla Podgurecki 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. Carla Podgurecki 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. Carla Podgurecki, 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 does it mean for Dr. Carla Podgurecki to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. Carla Podgurecki (or City of Fort Worth Employee Health Center - Magnolia she practices at) has a contract with your health insurance company. This contract typically includes agreed-upon (often discounted) rates for services. Seeing an in-network provider usually results in lower out-of-pocket costs for you, such as lower co-pays and co-insurance, once your deductible is met. 'Out-of-network' means there's no contract between the provider/clinic and your insurer. If you see an out-of-network provider, your insurance may cover a much smaller portion of the bill, or none at all, and you could be responsible for the difference between what the insurer pays and what the doctor charges (this is sometimes called 'balance billing'). It is always best to verify Dr. Carla Podgurecki's network status directly with your insurance plan by calling the member services number on your card or checking their online provider directory AND confirming with our clinic before your appointment.

What if Dr. Carla Podgurecki works in a group practice or medical group? Will I always see Dr. Carla Podgurecki?

Dr. Carla Podgurecki practices as part of City of Fort Worth Employee Health Center - Magnolia, which often means you have access to a team of healthcare professionals, potentially including other physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), nurses, medical assistants, and sometimes on-site or closely affiliated dietitians or behavioral health specialists. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary Family Physician, Dr. Carla Podgurecki, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. Carla Podgurecki is unavailable (e.g., on vacation or at a conference), you might be offered an appointment with another trusted member of the care team. This collaborative, team-based approach can enhance access to care, provide comprehensive support, and ensure your needs are met promptly. City of Fort Worth Employee Health Center - Magnolia will always strive to have you see Dr. Carla Podgurecki for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

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

Does Dr. Carla Podgurecki at City of Fort Worth Employee Health Center - Magnolia offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Carla Podgurecki at City of Fort Worth Employee Health Center - Magnolia 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. Carla Podgurecki 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. Carla Podgurecki before scheduling such an appointment.

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in Texas 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. Also use the 'Physician Finder' tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The Texas Medical Board website may have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, and contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups; they often have affiliated family physicians who are accepting new patients and can provide lists of accepted insurances. It can be challenging; verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Carla Podgurecki?

Expect to discuss your complete health profile and fill out registration and insurance forms. Dr. Carla Podgurecki will ask about your past medical history, significant family illnesses, all current medications (including vitamins and supplements - bring them!), allergies, lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, substance use), and health concerns or goals. This comprehensive intake helps her understand your overall health status and begin to formulate a long-term, personalized care plan. It's also an excellent time to ask questions about her approach to medicine or clinic procedures, including communication and handling of urgent needs.

City of Fort Worth Employee Health Center - Magnolia
1320 Hemphill St Ste 350
Fort Worth TX 76104
Phone: (817) 870-9990

Dr. Carla Podgurecki, MD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas Medical Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1093070559

Registration can typically be verified through The Texas 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. Carla Podgurecki 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.