Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, DO – Family Physician | Lakewood, WA

Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, DO is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Lakewood, WA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Washington Medical Commission and practices under the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians).

Dr. Debbie Lapertosa is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (253) 582-8900 to inquire or schedule an appointment. Her 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.

Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, DO is a family medicine physician in Lakewood, WA and has over 20 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in 2002. She is affiliated with MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital. With over 20 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. She is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Debbie Lapertosa provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Debbie Lapertosa is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.

Dr. Debbie Lapertosa addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Flexural Eczema: This skin condition leads to inflammation and irritation in the creases of your body, causing discomfort and itchiness.
• Granuloma Annulare: It's a benign skin problem characterized by small, raised lumps that often appear on the hands, feet or fingers.
• Cutaneous Candidiasis: This is a fungal infection affecting the skin.
• Subacute Active Lichen Planus: This skin condition causes an itchy rash.
• Pilonidal Cyst: A pilonidal cyst is a fluid-filled sac near the tailbone that can become infected and painful.
• Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep.
• Papilloma: A papilloma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth on the skin or mucous membranes.

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

• Thyroid Screening: This screening helps detect thyroid disorders early.
• Prostate Cancer Screening: This screening helps detect prostate cancer early.
• STD Screening: This screening helps detect sexually transmitted diseases.
• Hepatitis Screening: This screening helps detect hepatitis infections.
• Fetal Cardiac Screening: This screening helps detect heart problems in a developing fetus.
• Lyme Disease Evaluation: This evaluation helps diagnose Lyme disease.
• Rapid Flu Test: This test quickly detects influenza.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: This service helps identify and address alcohol misuse.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: This evaluation helps assess psychological readiness for bariatric surgery.
• Hepatitis A Screening: This screening helps detect hepatitis A infection.
• Dementia Evaluation: This evaluation helps diagnose dementia.
• Herpes Simplex Screening: This screening helps detect herpes simplex virus infections.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: This screening helps identify spinal and postural problems.
• Diabetes Screening: This screening helps detect diabetes.

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

• With consistent use of their prescribed treatment, patients find their sleep improves dramatically, leading to increased energy levels and the ability to fully enjoy daily activities once again. They wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day, experiencing a significant boost in their overall quality of life.
• With effective treatment, patients experience significant relief from the itching and rash associated with subacute active lichen planus, allowing them to comfortably resume their daily activities and enjoy life without the constant discomfort. They rediscover confidence and freedom from the limitations of their skin condition.
• Patients found relief from the discomfort of their papillomas, experiencing a significant improvement in their skin's appearance. This allowed them to confidently return to activities they previously avoided due to self-consciousness or physical irritation.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, 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 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. Debbie Lapertosa. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Debbie Lapertosa or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

Dr. Debbie Lapertosa and the clinic may participate in various health insurance plans common in Washington. Please contact our office or your insurer for details.

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. Debbie Lapertosa 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. Debbie Lapertosa) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (253) 582-8900 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. Debbie Lapertosa may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital (Tacoma, WA)

She earned her medical degree from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in 2002.

She is Board Certified in Family Practice/OMT by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Debbie Lapertosa:

Are services from Dr. Debbie Lapertosa typically covered by health insurance in Washington?

Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, as a Family Physician in Washington, 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 insurer. 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. Debbie Lapertosa 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.

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

Generally, individuals do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Debbie Lapertosa to establish care as their Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided she is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Debbie Lapertosa 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. Debbie Lapertosa, 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.

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

Yes, Dr. Debbie Lapertosa 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. Debbie Lapertosa 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. Debbie Lapertosa before scheduling such an appointment.

What does it mean for Dr. Debbie Lapertosa to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. Debbie Lapertosa (or the clinic 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. Debbie Lapertosa'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 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 [(253) 582-8900] 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. Debbie Lapertosa?

An initial new patient visit with Dr. Debbie Lapertosa usually involves a thorough discussion about your health and the completion of intake forms. Be prepared to share your personal and family medical history, a complete list of current medications with dosages, any ongoing health issues, and your overall lifestyle. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. Dr. Debbie Lapertosa will want to understand your health needs, concerns, and what you expect from your Family Physician/PCP. Depending on the clinic's policy and time allotted, some physicians may perform parts of a physical exam during this first visit, or a separate preventive visit/physical exam might be scheduled for a later date. This initial consultation is key to Dr. Debbie Lapertosa understanding your health baseline.

What does PCP mean and is Dr. Debbie Lapertosa one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, 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.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Debbie Lapertosa?

For most routine prescription refills, please contact your pharmacy first, ideally 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often send an electronic refill request directly to Dr. Debbie Lapertosa's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Debbie Lapertosa and the pharmacy. For certain medications (e.g., controlled substances like opioids or stimulants, or medications requiring close monitoring like blood thinners), or if it has been a significant time (e.g., as determined by Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, an appointment will likely be required to assess your condition, ensure the medication is still appropriate and at the correct dose, and meet regulatory requirements. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization for certain medications, which our office can help initiate, but this can add time. It is always best to request refills proactively and not wait until you are completely out of medication.

9601 Steilacoom Blvd SW
Lakewood WA 98498
Phone: (253) 582-8900

Dr. Debbie Lapertosa, DO 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): 1104928944

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. Debbie Lapertosa 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.