Dr. Dalton Allen, MD – Family Physician | Cleburne, TX

Dr. Dalton Allen, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Cleburne, TX. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Texas Medical Board and practices under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act).

Dr. Dalton Allen is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (817) 556-4800 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.

Dr. Dalton Allen serves patients of all ages and is proud to be part of the Optum family of primary care doctors, specialists, and care teams focused on providing care for people ages 65+. He and his team help patients reach their personal health goals, focusing on total well-being while helping prevent health problems and manage chronic conditions. Dr. Dalton Allen provides consultations primarily in English. He is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to his patients and to improving the health of his community.

Dr. Dalton Allen addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Vitamin B Deficiency: This condition occurs when the body doesn't get enough of certain B vitamins, leading to various symptoms.
• Mild Asthma: This condition involves occasional wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, often manageable with medication.
• Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: This is a common viral infection affecting the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms like cough, sore throat, and congestion.
• Shortness of Breath: This symptom can have various causes, ranging from mild exertion to underlying medical conditions, requiring a proper diagnosis.
• Hyperlipidemia: This condition involves high levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Constipation: This condition is characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements.
• Osteoarthritis of Knee: This is a degenerative joint disease affecting the knee, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Strep Throat: This bacterial infection of the throat can cause severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever.
• Fever: An elevated body temperature that often indicates an underlying infection or illness.
• Acute Lower Respiratory Infection: This is a common infection affecting the lower respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing.
• Joint Pain: Pain in the joints, which can result from various causes, including injury, inflammation, or arthritis.
• Lipid Disorders: This refers to abnormalities in the levels of lipids (fats and cholesterol) in the blood.
• Diabetic Polyneuropathy: This is a type of nerve damage that can occur in people with diabetes.
• Nail Infection: This is an infection of the nail, often caused by fungi or bacteria.

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

• Trichomoniasis Screening: This test helps detect the presence of a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis.
• Ovarian Cancer Screening: These screenings can help detect ovarian cancer early, improving the chances of successful treatment.
• Worker's Compensation Evaluations: These evaluations assess the extent of injuries related to workplace accidents.
• Osteoporosis Screening: These screenings help identify low bone density, a risk factor for osteoporosis.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: This test helps detect the presence of a common sexually transmitted infection.
• Wheelchair Evaluation: This evaluation assesses the need for a wheelchair and helps determine the appropriate type.
• Independent Educational Evaluation: This evaluation helps determine a child's educational needs and appropriate placement.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
• Strep Test: This test helps detect the presence of Streptococcus bacteria, a common cause of strep throat.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: This evaluation assesses a patient's psychological readiness for bariatric surgery.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: This test helps detect the presence of the Hepatitis C virus.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This comprehensive assessment helps diagnose and treat mental health conditions.
• Immunization Administration: This service involves the administration of vaccines to prevent infectious diseases.
• HIV Screening: This test helps detect the presence of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

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

• With appropriate rest and treatment, patients quickly recover from their acute upper respiratory infection, feeling significantly better and able to return to their normal activities. They are then able to resume work, school, and social engagements without further complications.
• Patients experiencing vitamin B deficiency often find relief through appropriate supplementation and dietary adjustments, leading to a significant improvement in energy levels and a return to their previously enjoyed activities. They are then able to resume their active lifestyles with renewed vitality.
• With proper management, patients experiencing shortness of breath often find significant relief, allowing them to return to activities they enjoy, such as walking, gardening, or spending time with loved ones. Improved breathing leads to increased energy and a better overall quality of life.

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

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
  • Plan: Blue Advantage, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Blue Choice
  • Plan: Blue Essentials, Type: HMO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna HMO
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• 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. Dalton Allen 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. Dalton Allen) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (817) 556-4800 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. Dalton Allen 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 Cleburne (Cleburne, TX)

He earned his medical degree from University of Texas at Dallas.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Dalton Allen:

Are services from Dr. Dalton Allen typically covered by health insurance in Texas?

As a Family Physician in Texas, Dr. Dalton Allen 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 crucial that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Dalton Allen is "in-network" for your plan and understand your specific coverage details, including 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. Dalton Allen as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Dalton Allen 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. Dalton Allen 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. Dalton Allen, 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.

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

How long do appointments with Dr. Dalton Allen typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Dalton Allen 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. Dalton Allen. 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.

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

Yes, Dr. Dalton Allen 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. Dalton Allen 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. Dalton Allen before scheduling such an appointment.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when the clinic is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency (such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, or major trauma), please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ER) immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until our clinic reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like ours, may have an on-call physician or an answering service that can direct you to appropriate care or provide advice for urgent patient queries after hours; please check our clinic voicemail [(817) 556-4800] or website for specific after-hours instructions. Your insurance plan may also offer a 24/7 nurse advice line that can help you determine the best course of action.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Dalton Allen?

When you first meet Dr. Dalton Allen as a new patient, expect to spend time discussing your complete health profile and filling out necessary registration and insurance forms. He will likely ask about your past medical history, significant family illnesses, all current medications (including vitamins and supplements - bringing them with you is often helpful), allergies, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and substance use, and any specific health concerns or goals you have. This comprehensive intake helps Dr. Dalton Allen understand your overall health status and begin to formulate a long-term, personalized care plan. It's also an excellent time to ask any questions you may have about his approach to medicine or clinic procedures, including how they handle communication and urgent needs.

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

Preventative care provided by Dr. Dalton Allen 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. Itu2019s about being proactive with your health, and Dr. Dalton Allen can help guide you in these efforts.

220 N Ridgeway Dr
Cleburne TX 76033
Phone: (817) 556-4800

Dr. Dalton Allen, 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): 1154818821

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. Dalton Allen 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.