Dr. Erica Ruiz, MD – Family Physician | La Quinta, CA

Dr. Erica Ruiz, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in La Quinta, CA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Please note: Dr. Erica Ruiz is not currently accepting new patients. You may wish to check back periodically for updates or contact (760) 564-9205 to inquire about potential future openings or waitlists.

Dr. Erica Ruiz, MD is a family medicine physician in La Quinta, CA and has over 20 years of experience in the medical field. She 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. She serves patients of all ages and offers consultations in Spanish. Dr. Erica Ruiz is registered with The Medical Board of California (MBC) and practices under the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 5 (Medical Practice Act). She graduated from Ross University School of Medicine in 2004 and is affiliated with Eisenhower Medical Center.

With over 20 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. Dr. Erica Ruiz is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. She looks forward to continuing to serve the La Quinta community and its residents for many years to come, ensuring the highest quality of care for all her patients.

Dr. Erica Ruiz addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Peripheral Nerve Disorders: These conditions affect the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
• Hyperlipidemia: This involves high levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Restless Leg Syndrome: This neurological disorder causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.
• Itchy Skin: Itchy skin can stem from various causes, and treatment focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying issue.
• Insomnia: This sleep disorder makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, impacting daily life.
• Hypokalemia: This condition is characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: This complex disorder is marked by persistent fatigue that cannot be explained by other medical conditions.
• Headache: Headaches can range from mild to severe and require careful evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
• Actinic Keratosis: These precancerous skin lesions are caused by sun exposure.
• Chronic Neck Pain: Persistent neck pain can significantly impact daily activities and requires a comprehensive approach to address the cause and alleviate symptoms.
• Hypogonadism: This refers to the body's inability to produce sufficient sex hormones.
• Symptomatic Menopause: This involves managing the various symptoms experienced by women during menopause.
• Hypothyroidism: This condition results from an underactive thyroid gland, leading to a slowed metabolism.
• Iodine Deficiency: This deficiency can lead to various health problems, including hypothyroidism.

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

• Psychological Evaluation: A comprehensive assessment of mental health and well-being.
• Health Screening: Preventative measures to detect potential health issues early.
• Urine Pregnancy Test: A quick and reliable test to determine pregnancy.
• Geriatric Assessment: A thorough evaluation of the health needs of older adults.
• Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: Managing care for patients with intricate healthcare needs.
• Hepatitis A Screening: A test to check for antibodies against hepatitis A virus.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: A screening test for the early detection of colorectal cancer.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: Assessing mental health readiness for weight-loss surgery.
• Prostate Cancer Screening Exam (DRE): A digital rectal exam to screen for prostate cancer.
• ACTH (Cosyntropin) Stimulation Test: A test to assess adrenal gland function.
• Trichomoniasis Screening: A test to detect the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis infection.
• Fetal Cardiac Screening: An assessment of fetal heart health during pregnancy.
• McMurray's Test: A physical examination maneuver to assess for meniscus tears in the knee.
• Impairment Rating Evaluation: Assessing the extent of functional limitations due to injury or illness.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Erica Ruiz. 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 California and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Medical Board of California (MBC).

Dr. Erica Ruiz 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. Erica Ruiz can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With effective treatment, patients experiencing insomnia find restful sleep returns, leading to improved energy levels and the ability to fully participate in daily life and enjoy favorite activities once again. They wake feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
• With early detection and appropriate treatment, patients successfully manage their actinic keratosis, leading to clearer skin and a renewed sense of confidence. Many are then able to enjoy outdoor activities without worry.
• Patients experiencing chronic neck pain often find relief through a combination of therapies, allowing them to return to favorite activities like gardening or playing with grandchildren without the persistent discomfort. This improved mobility significantly enhances their quality of life and overall well-being.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Erica Ruiz, 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.

This family medicine practice is conveniently located in the La Quinta, California area, near key city attractions and public services. It is generally accessible via local transportation options serving La Quinta. 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. Erica Ruiz. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Erica Ruiz 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
• Anthem Blue Cross
  • Plan: Pathway, Type: EPO
  • Plan: Prudent Buyer Individual CA, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Prudent Buyer Large Group CA, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Prudent Buyer Small Group CA, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of California
  • Plan: Advantage Preferred DirectAccess Plus, Type: PPO
• Blue Shield of California
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: LocalPlus
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Clover Health
  • Plan: Premium
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Health Net
  • Plan: CA Healthnet, Type: PPO
  • Plan: PureCare HSP Individual and Family Plans, Type: POS
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
  • Plan: National, Type: POS
• Oscar Health
  • Plan: Northern CA Cigna + Oscar LocalPlus, Type: EPO
  • Plan: Northern CA Cigna + Oscar Open Access Plus, Type: EPO
• 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. Erica Ruiz 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. Erica Ruiz) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (760) 564-9205 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. Erica Ruiz may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Eisenhower Medical Center (Rancho Mirage, CA)

She earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in 2004.

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. Erica Ruiz:

Are services from Dr. Erica Ruiz typically covered by health insurance in California?

Dr. Erica Ruiz, as a Family Physician in California, 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 (760) 564-9205 prior to scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. Erica Ruiz is 'in-network' for your plan and to understand your 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. Erica Ruiz as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Erica Ruiz 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. Erica Ruiz 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. Erica Ruiz, 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 happens if Dr. Erica Ruiz determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Seeing a medical specialist in the US often requires a referral from your Family Physician/PCP like Dr. Erica Ruiz, particularly if mandated by your health insurance plan (e.g., HMOs or some POS plans) to ensure coverage at the highest benefit level. After assessing your condition, if Dr. Erica Ruiz believes specialist care is necessary for diagnosis or management, she will discuss this with you and make the appropriate referral, often suggesting specialists who are known to be in-network with common insurance plans. Our office may assist with the insurance pre-authorization process if required. You will then typically be contacted by the specialist's office to arrange your appointment. Remember that specialist wait times can vary, so Dr. Erica Ruiz will continue to manage your care and provide support in the interim.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Erica Ruiz?

Having continuity of care with Dr. Erica Ruiz means that she is your consistent point of contact for your health needs over many years, serving as your 'medical home'. This long-term relationship allows Dr. Erica Ruiz to understand the nuances of your health, track changes over time, and provide care that is personalized and proactive. It improves communication, reduces duplication of tests and potential for conflicting medical advice, helps in managing chronic conditions more effectively, and fosters a stronger physician-patient partnership, all leading to better overall health management within the US healthcare system.

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

Can Dr. Erica Ruiz help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. Erica Ruiz plays a crucial role in mental and behavioral healthcare. She is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress-related issues, sleep problems, or concerns about substance use. Dr. Erica Ruiz can provide an initial assessment (often using screening tools), offer supportive counseling and lifestyle strategies, prescribe medication if appropriate and indicated (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications), and make referrals to specialized mental health services such as psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists (LCSW, LPC, MFT), or community mental health programs if more intensive or specialized care (like specific types of psychotherapy) is needed. Dr. Erica Ruiz can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Erica Ruiz?

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. Erica Ruiz's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Erica Ruiz 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. Erica Ruiz, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Erica Ruiz, 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.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Erica Ruiz?

To each appointment with Dr. Erica Ruiz at the clinic, please ensure you have all your current health insurance cards and a photo ID. A current, detailed list of all your medications (name, dose, frequency, prescribing doctor if not Dr. Erica Ruiz) is very important. If you're coming about a specific issue and have related reports (like X-rays, specialist letters, or recent lab results from elsewhere), please bring those along. It's also a good idea to jot down any questions or symptoms you want to discuss with Dr. Erica Ruiz beforehand so you don't forget anything important. You may also want to check with the clinic beforehand about their payment policy for co-pays or services not covered by insurance.

47110 Washington St Ste 203
La Quinta CA 92253
Phone: (760) 564-9205

Dr. Erica Ruiz, MD is regulated by the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 5 (Medical Practice Act) in California and is licensed by The Medical Board of California (MBC).

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1215191184

Registration can typically be verified through The Medical Board of California (MBC) 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. Erica Ruiz 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.