Dr. David Kennel, MD – Family Physician | Lakewood, WA

Dr. David Kennel, MD is a Family Physician practicing at Physician Care NW in Lakewood, WA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Washington Medical Commission and practices under the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians). Please note: Dr. David Kennel is not currently accepting new patients. You may wish to check back periodically for updates or contact (253) 366-5859 to inquire about potential future openings or waitlists.

Dr. David Kennel provides 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 brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients, with over 45 years of dedicated experience in family medicine. Dr. David Kennel's approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and building strong, collaborative physician-patient relationships.

Dr. David Kennel, MD is a family medicine physician in Lakewood, WA and has over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN / ANN ARBOR in 1979. He is affiliated with medical facilities St. Clare Hospital and MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital. He provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. David Kennel remains committed to improving the health and well-being of his patients and the wider community.

Dr. David Kennel addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Genital Herpes: This sexually transmitted infection is characterized by painful sores and blisters in the genital area and requires medical evaluation and treatment.
• Anxiety: Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry and fear, often impacting daily life, and benefit from a combination of approaches including therapy and medication.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: This condition occurs when the body doesn't have enough vitamin D, potentially leading to bone problems and other health issues, and is typically addressed through supplementation and dietary changes.
• Dehydration: Dehydration results from insufficient fluid intake, causing symptoms like thirst, fatigue, and dizziness, and is typically treated by increasing fluid intake.
• Fever: Fever is an elevated body temperature often indicating infection, and its management depends on the underlying cause and severity.
• Hypogonadism: This condition involves insufficient sex hormone production, potentially impacting sexual function and other bodily processes, and requires medical attention.
• Hyperkalemia: This condition involves dangerously high potassium levels in the blood, requiring medical intervention.
• Sciatica: Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, often caused by nerve compression, and can be managed with various treatments.
• Radiculopathy: Radiculopathy refers to nerve root compression, causing pain, numbness, and weakness, and needs medical assessment and tailored treatment.
• Peripheral Nerve Disorders: These disorders affect the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, potentially causing pain, numbness, or weakness, and require a thorough medical evaluation.
• Actinic Keratosis: Actinic keratosis are precancerous skin lesions caused by sun exposure, and require medical evaluation and treatment.
• Arthritis: Arthritis encompasses joint inflammation, causing pain and stiffness, with various treatment options depending on the specific type.
• Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia is characterized by low blood sugar levels, requiring attention to prevent serious complications.
• Muscle Spasm: Muscle spasms involve involuntary muscle contractions, often causing pain, and are treated based on the underlying cause.

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

• Chest Pain Evaluation: Thorough evaluation of chest pain to determine the cause and ensure appropriate management.
• Immunization Administration: Administration of vaccines to protect against various infectious diseases.
• Dyslexia Assessment: Assessment of reading difficulties to determine if dyslexia is present and to guide appropriate interventions.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging of the heart to assess its structure and function.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: Assessment of psychological readiness for bariatric surgery.
• Mole Evaluation: Examination of moles to detect any signs of skin cancer.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: A test to evaluate the heart's response to stress.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: Tests to identify anemia and iron deficiency.
• Ovarian Cancer Screening: Screening tests to detect ovarian cancer early.
• Vaginosis Screening: Screening tests for bacterial vaginosis.
• HIV Screening: Testing for HIV infection.
• Tuberculosis Screening: Testing for tuberculosis infection.
• Mammography: X-ray imaging of the breasts to detect breast cancer.
• VAP Lipid Testing: Testing to evaluate lipid levels to assess cardiovascular risk.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. David Kennel. 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 Washington and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Washington Medical Commission.

Dr. David Kennel 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. David Kennel can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With careful management, patients find their joint pain significantly reduced, enabling them to return to favorite activities like gardening or playing with grandchildren. Improved mobility and reduced discomfort restore a sense of independence and joy to daily life.
• With effective treatment, patients find relief from debilitating muscle spasms, allowing them to return to their favorite activities and enjoy a more active lifestyle. Pain reduction and improved mobility significantly enhance their overall quality of life.
• With proper management, patients often experience a renewed sense of vitality and improved energy levels. This allows them to actively participate in life's activities and enjoy a greater quality of life.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. David Kennel, 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 Lakewood, Washington area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Lakewood and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Lakewood. 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. David Kennel. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. David Kennel 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
• 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
• 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. David Kennel 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. David Kennel) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (253) 366-5859 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. David Kennel may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• St. Clare Hospital (Lakewood, WA)
• MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital (Tacoma, WA)

He earned his medical degree from UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN / ANN ARBOR in 1979. He completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at Providence Hospital (graduated 1980). Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Providence Hospital (graduated 1982), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. David Kennel:

Are services from Dr. David Kennel typically covered by health insurance in Washington?

As a Family Physician in Washington, Dr. David Kennel likely accepts many health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs (patients should verify Medicaid participation directly). However, it is absolutely essential that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with Physician Care NW's office at (253) 366-5859 prior to scheduling any appointment to confirm that Dr. David Kennel is 'in-network' for your plan and to 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. David Kennel as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. David Kennel 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. David Kennel 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. David Kennel, 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 should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. David Kennel?

Always bring your insurance card(s) and a form of photo ID to your appointment with Dr. David Kennel. A complete list of all medications you're currently taking (prescription, non-prescription, natural health products), including dosages, is crucial for Dr. David Kennel to review for safety and interactions. For new patients, any past medical records or a health summary you can provide are beneficial. If you monitor things at home (like blood pressure or blood sugar), bringing your logbook and device can be helpful. Preparing a list of your symptoms or questions in advance can also make your appointment more productive. Also, be aware of your insurance co-pay or deductible responsibilities.

Does Dr. David Kennel at Physician Care NW offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Dr. David Kennel at Physician Care NW 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. David Kennel 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. David Kennel before scheduling such an appointment.

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

A Family Physician (Family Physician) in the US is a physician who has completed residency training and is typically board-certified in Family Medicine (e.g., by the American Board of Family Medicine - ABFM). He are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the US healthcare system, including coordinating with your insurance plan for necessary care.

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

Preventative care provided by Dr. David Kennel 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. David Kennel can help guide you in these efforts.

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

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. David Kennel?

When you first meet Dr. David Kennel 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. David Kennel 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.

Physician Care NW
5920 100th St SW Ste 11
Lakewood WA 98499
Phone: (253) 366-5859

Dr. David Kennel, MD is regulated by the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians) in Washington and is licensed by The Washington Medical Commission.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1952345563

Registration can typically be verified through The Washington Medical Commission 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. David Kennel 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.