Dr. Christopher Schenewerk, MD – Family Physician | Columbia, IL

Dr. Christopher Schenewerk, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Columbia, IL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He 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. Christopher Schenewerk is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (618) 281-7373 to inquire or schedule an appointment. His focus is 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.

Christopher Schenewerk, MD, is a board-certified Family Medicine physician. He provides general care for patients of all ages, from newborn to geriatric. Dr. Schenewerk offers annual wellness exams, vaccinations, and sick visits. He also treats many chronic conditions, such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease, and many other diagnoses. His practice is a part of BJC Medical Group of Illinois, a well-established, multi-specialty physician group. Dr. Christopher Schenewerk provides consultations primarily in English. He believes in carefully listening to patients during visits, being empathetic and friendly at all times. Dr. Christopher Schenewerk is committed to providing compassionate care and improving the health and well-being of his community.

Dr. Christopher Schenewerk addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Hypercalcemia: This condition involves abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood, potentially leading to various health issues.
• Sciatica: Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, typically from the lower back down the leg.
• Salivary Gland Stones and Inflammation: These conditions cause pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing due to blockages or inflammation in the salivary glands.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: IBS is a chronic condition causing abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
• Moles (Benign Skin Lesions): These are common skin growths that are usually harmless, but some require monitoring or removal.
• Hypoglycemia: This refers to low blood sugar levels, often experienced by people with diabetes.
• Acute Lower Respiratory Infection: This is a common infection affecting the lungs, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
• Dyslipidemia: This involves abnormal lipid levels in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Joint Pain: This encompasses pain in the joints, with various potential causes.
• Hyperlipidemia: This refers to high cholesterol and other fats in the blood.
• Strep Throat: Strep throat is a bacterial infection causing a sore throat and other symptoms.
• Onychomycosis: This is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails.
• Torticollis: This condition involves involuntary neck muscle contractions, causing the head to tilt.
• Rash: Rashes are skin eruptions with various causes, requiring proper diagnosis.

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

• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: This screening helps assess an individual's risk of developing breast cancer.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: This test evaluates the heart's response to physical stress.
• Independent Educational Evaluation: This provides an unbiased assessment of a child's educational needs.
• Psychiatric Evaluation - Child and Adolescent: This involves assessing a child or adolescent's mental health.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This test measures specific lipids in the blood to assess cardiovascular risk.
• Lyme Disease Evaluation: This evaluation helps determine if someone has been infected with Lyme disease.
• Mole Evaluation: This involves examining moles to detect any potential cancerous changes.
• Dementia Evaluation: This evaluation helps assess cognitive function and diagnose dementia if present.
• Syphilis Screening: This screening test detects the presence of syphilis infection.
• ACTH (Cosyntropin) Stimulation Test: This test assesses the function of the adrenal glands.
• Vaccination: This service provides protection against various infectious diseases.
• Prostate Cancer Screening: This screening helps detect prostate cancer early.
• Health Screening: This comprehensive assessment helps identify potential health risks.
• Thyroid Screening: This screening evaluates the function of the thyroid gland.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Christopher Schenewerk. 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. Christopher Schenewerk 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. Christopher Schenewerk can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With effective treatment, many patients find significant relief from the debilitating pain of sciatica, allowing them to return to activities they enjoy, such as walking, hiking, or even just bending over without discomfort. Improved mobility and reduced pain contribute to a much higher quality of life.
• With effective treatment, patients experience significant relief from the pain and swelling associated with salivary gland stones and inflammation. This allows them to comfortably eat and enjoy their favorite foods again, improving their overall quality of life.
• With prompt treatment, patients quickly recover from strep throat, experiencing relief from the painful sore throat and allowing them to return to their normal activities, such as school or work. They are soon feeling better and back to their usual routines.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Christopher Schenewerk, 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 situated in a family medicine practice in the Columbia, Illinois area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Columbia and 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. 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. Christopher Schenewerk. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Christopher Schenewerk or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• Aetna
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS II
• Anthem
  • Plan: National (BlueCard), Type: PPO
• 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
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue 2.0
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: LocalPlus
  • 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
• HAP Insurance
  • Plan: Health Alliance, 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. Christopher Schenewerk 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. Christopher Schenewerk) 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. Christopher Schenewerk 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)
• Memorial Hospital East (Shiloh, IL)

He earned his medical degree from University of Illinois College of Medicine. He completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at St Louis University Hospital (graduated 1997). Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at St Louis University Hospital (graduated 1999), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

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

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Christopher Schenewerk:

Are services from Dr. Christopher Schenewerk typically covered by health insurance in Illinois?

Dr. Christopher Schenewerk, as a Family Physician in Illinois, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, patients should always verify Medicaid participation directly with their insurance provider. It is imperative that patients verify with their specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Christopher Schenewerk is 'in-network' for their plan and to understand their 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. Christopher Schenewerk as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, individuals do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Christopher Schenewerk to establish care as their Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided he is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Christopher Schenewerk 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. Christopher Schenewerk, 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. Christopher Schenewerk to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. Christopher Schenewerk (or the clinic he 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. Christopher Schenewerk'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.

How long do appointments with Dr. Christopher Schenewerk typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Christopher Schenewerk can vary depending on the reason for your visit. In the US, 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. Christopher Schenewerk. 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.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Christopher Schenewerk?

Your first appointment with Dr. Christopher Schenewerk is an important opportunity to establish care. He will likely review your detailed medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, hospitalizations, allergies, immunizations, and family health history. he will also want to discuss your current health concerns, any medications you are taking (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, supplements - bring the bottles or an accurate list), and your lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol/substance use). A basic physical examination may be performed. This visit is also a chance for you to ask questions about Dr. Christopher Schenewerk's practice style and for him to explain clinic policies (e.g., appointment scheduling, prescription refills, communication methods, insurance billing procedures, missed appointment fees). You will likely need to provide your insurance card(s), a photo ID, and complete new patient paperwork. The main goal is to gather comprehensive baseline information for optimal ongoing care and to begin building a strong physician-patient relationship.

What does PCP mean and is Dr. Christopher Schenewerk one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Christopher Schenewerk, as a Family Physician, serves as a PCP for his 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. He manage a wide range of health concerns and coordinate 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.

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

The recommended frequency for check-ups, often called annual physicals or preventive wellness visits, with Dr. Christopher Schenewerk 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. Christopher Schenewerk). 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. Christopher Schenewerk follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Christopher Schenewerk to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care.

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. 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. 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; verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling.

200 Admiral Trost Rd Ste 1A
Columbia IL 62236
Phone: (618) 281-7373

Dr. Christopher Schenewerk, MD 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): 1154328722

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. Christopher Schenewerk 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.