Dr. Caroline Blevins, MD – Family Physician | Richmond, VA

Dr. Caroline Blevins, MD is a Family Physician practicing at Primary Health Group - Chippenham in Richmond, VA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Virginia Board of Medicine and practices under the Code of Virginia, Title 54.1, Chapter 29 (Medicine and Other Healing Arts).

Dr. Caroline Blevins is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (804) 560-0490 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. Caroline Blevins provides consultations primarily in English. She received her Bachelor of Science from the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA, and her Masters of Public Health (M.P.H.) from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA. She then earned her Doctor of Medicine from Tulane University School of Medicine. Her background includes experience as an Allan Rosenfield Global Health Fellow and work in the CDC's Global AIDS Prevention Program Association of Schools of Public Health in Zambia. After completing her internship and residency in primary care at Virginia Commonwealth University Chesterfield Family Medicine Residency Program (Chippenham, Johnston Willis, and St. Francis), she served as a Chief Resident at Chesterfield Family Practice before joining Primary Health Group - Chippenham. Dr. Blevins is board-certified in Family Medicine and utilizes an evidence-based approach, emphasizing patient education and collaborative relationships to achieve optimal health outcomes. She is committed to serving patients of all ages and prioritizes community health, wellness, and disease prevention. Dr. Caroline Blevins is excited to continue providing compassionate care and looks forward to supporting the health and well-being of her patients and the community.

Dr. Caroline Blevins addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Malnutrition: This condition involves an insufficient intake of essential nutrients, leading to health problems.
• Folliculitis: This is an inflammation of hair follicles, often causing small, pus-filled bumps.
• Chronic Sinusitis: This involves persistent inflammation and infection of the sinuses.
• Chronic Depression (Dysthymia): This is a persistent low mood that lasts for at least two years.
• Torticollis: This condition causes the head to tilt to one side.
• Anemia: This involves a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin.
• Lichen Simplex Chronicus: This is a skin condition characterized by chronic itching and scratching.
• Canker Sore: This is a small, painful ulcer inside the mouth.
• Balanitis: This is inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis.
• Osteopenia: This is a condition characterized by low bone mass, increasing the risk of fractures.
• Abnormal Thyroid: This refers to an underactive or overactive thyroid gland.
• Gastritis: This is inflammation of the stomach lining.
• Diabetic Polyneuropathy: This is nerve damage caused by diabetes.
• Urinary Hesitancy: This involves difficulty starting or maintaining a urinary stream.

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

• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: This screening test helps detect hidden blood in the stool, which may indicate colorectal cancer.
• Blood Allergy Testing: This test identifies specific allergens causing allergic reactions.
• Trichomoniasis Screening: This test detects the presence of the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite, a common sexually transmitted infection.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: This test screens for the hepatitis C virus, a virus that can cause liver damage.
• Disability Evaluation: This involves assessing an individual's functional limitations to determine eligibility for disability benefits.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This comprehensive evaluation assesses mental health conditions.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: This test screens for the hepatitis B virus, a virus that can cause liver damage.
• Gonorrhea Screening: This test detects the presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria, a common sexually transmitted infection.
• Psychological Evaluation: This evaluation assesses psychological functioning and mental health.
• Abscess or Cyst Drainage or Aspiration: This procedure removes pus or fluid from an abscess or cyst.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
• Strep Test: This test detects the presence of Streptococcus bacteria, a common cause of strep throat.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: This involves assessing and treating various sleep disorders.
• STD Screening: This comprehensive screening checks for various sexually transmitted diseases.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Caroline Blevins. 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 Virginia and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Virginia Board of Medicine.

Dr. Caroline Blevins 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. Caroline Blevins can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With the right treatment, patients find relief from the pain and discomfort of canker sores, allowing them to eat and speak comfortably again. This quick recovery helps them return to their normal routines and enjoy their favorite foods without worry.
• With proper treatment, patients experience significant relief from the discomfort of balanitis, allowing them to return to their normal daily activities with increased confidence and comfort. This often leads to improved quality of life and reduced anxiety about hygiene and intimacy.
• With consistent treatment, patients experience significant relief from the pain and stiffness of torticollis, allowing them to regain greater mobility and participate more fully in everyday activities. Many find they can return to work, hobbies, and social engagements with renewed ease and comfort.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Caroline Blevins, 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 Richmond, Virginia area family medicine practice, near many city attractions and public services. It’s generally accessible via Richmond’s public transportation options. 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. Caroline Blevins. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Caroline Blevins or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• Buckeye Community Health Plan
  • Plan: Medicare

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. Caroline Blevins 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. Caroline Blevins) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (804) 560-0490 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. Caroline Blevins may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Johnston-Willis Hospital (North Chesterfield, VA)
• Chippenham Hospital (Richmond, VA)

She earned her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine.

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

Are services from Dr. Caroline Blevins typically covered by health insurance in Virginia?

Dr. Caroline Blevins, as a Family Physician in Virginia, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, it is absolutely imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with Primary Health Group - Chippenham’s office at (804) 560-0490 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Caroline Blevins is ‘in-network’ for your plan and to fully understand your specific coverage details, including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and any referral requirements for specialist visits. Some services (e.g., most cosmetic procedures, administrative forms, non-medically necessary visits) may not be covered by insurance and could result in out-of-pocket expenses. Please inquire about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Caroline Blevins 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. Caroline Blevins 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. Caroline Blevins, 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. Caroline Blevins to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

‘In-network’ means Dr. Caroline Blevins (or Primary Health Group - Chippenham 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. Caroline Blevins’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 does PCP mean and is Dr. Caroline Blevins one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Caroline Blevins, as a Family Physician, serves as a PCP for her patients. Your PCP is your main doctor for general health needs, preventative care (like annual physicals and screenings), and is usually the first point of contact for most medical issues, both acute and chronic. She manages a wide range of health concerns and coordinates your overall care, including providing referrals to specialists if needed. Many health insurance plans in the US, especially HMOs, require you to select or be assigned a designated PCP to oversee your care and authorize specialist visits.

I have multiple health problems (multimorbidity). How does Dr. Caroline Blevins handle complex care?

As a Family Physician, Dr. Caroline Blevins is specifically trained to manage patients with multiple health problems (multimorbidity) and complex care needs. She will take a holistic approach, considering how your various conditions interact and how treatments for one might affect another. Dr. Caroline Blevins will help prioritize your health concerns, coordinate care with any specialists involved (ensuring referrals are appropriate, results are integrated, and treatment plans are aligned), manage your medications to avoid harmful interactions and polypharmacy (reviewing for necessity and effectiveness), and develop a comprehensive, patient-centered care plan that aligns with your overall health goals, values, and quality of life. Open communication about all your conditions, medications, and concerns is key to this process.

What happens if Dr. Caroline Blevins determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Seeing a medical specialist in the US often requires a referral from your Family Physician/PCP like Dr. Caroline Blevins, particularly if mandated by your health insurance plan (e.g., HMOs or some POS plans) to ensure coverage at the highest benefit level. After assessing your condition, if Dr. Caroline Blevins believes specialist care is necessary for diagnosis or management, she will discuss this with you and make the appropriate referral, often suggesting specialists who are known to be in-network with common insurance plans. Our office may assist with the insurance pre-authorization process if required. You will then typically be contacted by the specialist’s office to arrange your appointment. Remember that specialist wait times can vary, so Dr. Caroline Blevins will continue to manage your care and provide support in the interim.

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

Preventative care provided by Dr. Caroline Blevins aims to stop health issues from occurring or to catch them at an early, more manageable stage, following established US guidelines. This includes regular physical exams or wellness visits (many insurance plans cover one per year), vaccinations, screenings for common conditions like certain cancers or heart disease risk factors (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes), and personalized advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking. It’s about being proactive with your health, and Dr. Caroline Blevins can help guide you in these efforts.

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

Having continuity of care with Dr. Caroline Blevins 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. Caroline Blevins 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.

Primary Health Group - Chippenham
500 Hioaks Rd Ste B
Richmond VA 23225
Phone: (804) 560-0490

Dr. Caroline Blevins, MD is regulated by the Code of Virginia, Title 54.1, Chapter 29 (Medicine and Other Healing Arts) in Virginia and is licensed by The Virginia Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1295115020

Registration can typically be verified through The Virginia Board of 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. Caroline Blevins 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.