Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence, MD – Family Physician | Clearwater, FL

Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Clearwater, FL. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice).

Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (727) 467-2550 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. Elizabeth Lawrence serves patients of all ages and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. She provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the Clearwater community. She is affiliated with Morton Plant Hospital and is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Vitamin D Deficiency: This condition occurs when the body doesn't have enough vitamin D, leading to potential bone problems and other health issues.
• Difficulty With Walking: This symptom can have various underlying causes and requires a thorough evaluation to determine the appropriate treatment.
• Sprains and Strains (incl. Muscle Tear): These injuries involve damage to ligaments, tendons, or muscles, often requiring rest, ice, and physical therapy.
• Viral Enteritis: This is an inflammation of the intestines caused by a virus, often resulting in diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Osteoarthritis of Knee: This degenerative joint disease affects the knee joint, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Hernia: This occurs when an organ pushes through a weak point in the surrounding muscle or tissue.
• Hypotension: This refers to abnormally low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness and fainting.
• Hyperlipidemia: This condition involves high levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Lice: These tiny parasites infest the hair and scalp, causing itching and discomfort.
• Osteoarthritis of Shoulder: This degenerative joint disease affects the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Shoulder Tendinitis and Tenosynovitis: These conditions involve inflammation of the tendons and tendon sheaths in the shoulder.
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): This lung disease causes breathing difficulties and is often associated with smoking.
• Common Cold: This viral infection causes symptoms like runny nose, cough, and sore throat.
• Cough: This symptom can be caused by various conditions, from the common cold to more serious lung diseases.

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

• Trichomoniasis Screening: This test detects the presence of a sexually transmitted infection.
• Drug Allergy Testing: This helps identify allergic reactions to specific medications.
• Home Sleep Study: This test monitors sleep patterns and breathing at home to diagnose sleep disorders.
• Hepatitis Screening: This test detects the presence of hepatitis viruses in the blood.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test measures the electrical activity of the heart.
• Geriatric Assessment: This comprehensive evaluation assesses the health needs of older adults.
• Diabetic Evaluation: This helps manage and monitor diabetes.
• Syphilis Screening: This test detects the presence of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection.
• Obesity Counseling: This service provides guidance and support for weight management.
• Herpes Simplex Screening: This test detects the presence of herpes simplex viruses.
• Blood Allergy Testing: This helps identify allergic reactions to specific substances in the blood.
• Cancer Screening: This involves tests to detect early signs of cancer.
• Skin Screenings: This helps detect potential skin cancers or other skin abnormalities.
• Urine Pregnancy Test: This test detects pregnancy hormones in the urine.

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

Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence 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. Elizabeth Lawrence can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With appropriate rest and supportive care, patients quickly recover from their common colds, feeling refreshed and able to return to their normal activities. They find relief from congestion and discomfort, enabling them to resume work, school, and social engagements.
• With proper treatment and physical therapy, patients experiencing sprains and strains find relief from pain and inflammation, enabling them to return to their favorite activities, whether it's gardening, playing sports, or simply enjoying walks without discomfort. They regain strength and mobility, improving their overall quality of life.
• With careful management of their hyperlipidemia, patients often see significant improvements in their cholesterol levels, reducing their risk of heart disease and allowing them to enjoy a more active and fulfilling life. This improved health enables many to participate more fully in the activities they love.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence, 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 Clearwater, Florida area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Clearwater and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Clearwater. 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. Elizabeth Lawrence. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence 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
  • Plan: Elect Choice (Open Access), Type: EPO
  • Plan: Managed Choice (Open Access), Type: POS
  • Plan: Open Choice, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
• AvMed
  • Plan: Choice Large Group, Type: POS
  • Plan: Empower - Small Employer Groups
  • Plan: Empower, Type: POS
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card High Performance Network, Type: HPN
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
  • Plan: Blue Preferred Patient Care, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
  • Plan: Blue Choice, Type: HMO
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
  • Plan: Blue Select, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Preferred Patient Care
• Cigna
  • 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
• Florida Blue
  • Plan: BlueOptions, Type: HMO
  • Plan: SimplyBlue, Type: HMO
  • Plan: myBlue, Type: EPO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care Network, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
  • Plan: HMO Premier, Type: HMO
  • Plan: National, Type: POS
  • Plan: Preferred, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Select, Type: HMO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Medica Choice
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: POS
  • 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. Elizabeth Lawrence 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. Elizabeth Lawrence) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (727) 467-2550 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. Elizabeth Lawrence may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Morton Plant Hospital (Clearwater, FL)

She earned her medical degree from University of South Florida.

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

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence:

Are services from Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence typically covered by health insurance in Florida?

As a Family Physician in Florida, Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence 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 imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (727) 467-2550 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence 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 if applicable. Some services, such as most cosmetic procedures, some administrative forms, or 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. Elizabeth Lawrence as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence 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. Elizabeth Lawrence 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. Elizabeth Lawrence, 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 PCP mean and is Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence, 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 often should I see Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence for a check-up or physical exam?

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

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

'In-network' means Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence (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. Elizabeth Lawrence'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 exactly is a Family Physician (Family Physician) and what is their role in the US healthcare system?

A Family Physician, often your Primary Care Physician (PCP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages – from newborns to seniors. In the US healthcare system, they serve as your main point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like wellness visits, immunizations, health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and navigate the complexities of the US healthcare system.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence?

When you first meet Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence as a new patient, expect to spend time discussing your complete health profile and filling out necessary registration and insurance forms. She 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. Elizabeth Lawrence 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 her approach to medicine or clinic procedures, including how they handle communication and urgent needs.

What if Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence works in a group practice or medical group? Will I always see Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence?

Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence practices as part of a group practice, which often means you have access to a team of healthcare professionals, potentially including other physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), nurses, medical assistants, and sometimes on-site or closely affiliated dietitians or behavioral health specialists. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary Family Physician, Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence is unavailable (e.g., on vacation or at a conference), you might be offered an appointment with another trusted member of the care team. This collaborative, team-based approach can enhance access to care, provide comprehensive support, and ensure your needs are met promptly. The clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

807 N Myrtle Ave
Clearwater FL 33755
Phone: (727) 467-2550

Dr. Elizabeth Lawrence, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1083664817

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida 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. Elizabeth Lawrence 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.