Dr. Ernest Enzien, MD – Family Physician | Rensselaer, NY

Dr. Ernest Enzien, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Rensselaer, NY. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The New York State Board for Medicine (NYSBOM) and practices under the New York Education Law, Article 131 (Medicine).

Dr. Ernest Enzien is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (518) 286-4899 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. Ernest Enzien, MD is a family medicine physician in Rensselaer, NY and has over 25 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from St George's Univ, School of Med in 1999. He is affiliated with medical facilities Columbia Memorial Hospital and St Peter's Hospital. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. With over 25 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients. He provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Ernest Enzien is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients and the community he serves.

Dr. Ernest Enzien addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Cluster Headache: This involves severe, recurring headaches that occur in clusters.
• Dizziness: This encompasses a range of sensations, from lightheadedness to vertigo, often requiring careful evaluation.
• Hyperlipidemia: This refers to elevated levels of cholesterol and/or other fats in the blood.
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: This condition, also known as menorrhagia, involves unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
• Osteoarthritis of Hand or Wrist: This type of arthritis affects the joints in the hands and wrists, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Phosphorus Metabolism Disorders: These disorders involve imbalances in the body's phosphorus levels.
• Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore that develops in the lining of the stomach or duodenum.
• Pollen Allergy: This allergic reaction is triggered by pollen from plants and trees.
• Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome: This involves persistent pain without a clear underlying medical cause.
• Pharyngitis: This is an inflammation of the pharynx, commonly known as a sore throat.
• Constipation: This involves infrequent or difficult bowel movements.
• Long COVID Disorder: This refers to ongoing health problems experienced by some individuals after a COVID-19 infection.
• Hair Loss: This can have various underlying causes and often requires investigation.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis: This skin condition causes flaking, itching, and redness, often on the scalp, face, or other areas.

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

• Syphilis Screening: This test helps detect the presence of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection.
• Dyslexia Assessment: This assessment helps identify and evaluate difficulties with reading and language processing.
• Vaginosis Screening: This screening helps identify bacterial vaginosis, a common vaginal infection.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: This test evaluates the heart's response to physical stress.
• Melanoma Screening: This involves examining the skin for signs of melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: These screenings help assess for cognitive decline or depressive symptoms.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: This evaluation helps determine psychological readiness for bariatric surgery.
• Skin Screenings: Regular skin screenings help detect skin cancers early.
• Worker's Compensation Evaluations: These evaluations assess work-related injuries or illnesses.
• Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: This service helps identify and address alcohol or substance misuse.
• Psychiatric Evaluation - Child and Adolescent: This evaluation assesses mental health in children and adolescents.
• Health Screening: This comprehensive assessment helps identify potential health risks.
• Independent Educational Evaluation: This evaluation assesses a child's educational needs.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: This service helps diagnose and manage sleep disorders.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Ernest Enzien. 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 New York and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The New York State Board for Medicine (NYSBOM).

Dr. Ernest Enzien 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. Ernest Enzien can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With proper treatment, patients experience significant relief from the flaking, itching, and redness associated with seborrheic dermatitis, allowing them to confidently participate in social activities and enjoy a better quality of life. They are able to feel more comfortable in their own skin and resume normal daily routines without the discomfort of their condition.
• Through diligent management of their hyperlipidemia, patients often see significant improvements in their cholesterol levels, leading to a reduced risk of heart disease and allowing them to enjoy a more active and fulfilling life. They are able to participate in activities they love without the worry of potential health complications.
• With proper management, patients experience significant pain relief and improved hand function, enabling them to confidently resume everyday activities like gardening or knitting. They rediscover the joy in simple tasks, enhancing their overall quality of life.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Ernest Enzien, 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 Rensselaer, New York area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Rensselaer and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Rensselaer. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Convenient patient parking is typically available nearby or on-site.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Ernest Enzien. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Ernest Enzien or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• Aetna
  • Plan: APCN Choice, Type: POS II
  • Plan: APCN Open Access Aetna Select
  • 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
  • Plan: Savings Plus of Metro, NY
  • Plan: Select
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts
  • Plan: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Type: PPO
• Blue Shield of Northeastern New York
  • Plan: Blue Shield of Northeastern New York HMO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Connecticare
  • Plan: Passage, Type: HMO
• EmblemHealth
  • Plan: HIP Prime, Type: HMO
• Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Acess Employer Sponsored
  • Plan: Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
  • Plan: Empire Hospital
  • Plan: Empire Hospital/Medical (Trad)
• Excellus BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: BluePPO HSA, Type: PPO
  • Plan: SimplyBlue/Simply Blue Plus, Type: PPO
• Fidelis Care
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care Network, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
• MVP Health Care
  • Plan: MVP Health Care HMO
  • Plan: MVP Health Plan, Type: EPO
• MagnaCare
  • Plan: MagnaCare PPO
• 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. Ernest Enzien 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. Ernest Enzien) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (518) 286-4899 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. Ernest Enzien may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• St Peter's Hospital (Albany, NY)
• Columbia Memorial Hospital (Hudson, NY)

He earned his medical degree from St George's Univ, School of Med in 1999.

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

Are services from Dr. Ernest Enzien typically covered by health insurance in New York?

Dr. Ernest Enzien, as a Family Physician in New York, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, it is absolutely imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (518) 286-4899 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Ernest Enzien 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, such as most cosmetic procedures, certain administrative forms, or non-medically necessary visits, may not be covered by insurance and could result in out-of-pocket expenses. Please ask our office about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Ernest Enzien 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. Ernest Enzien 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. Ernest Enzien, 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. Ernest Enzien one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Ernest Enzien, as a Family Physician, serves as a PCP for his 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. He 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.

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

Preventative care with Dr. Ernest Enzien focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious, often guided by recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), CDC, and other national bodies like the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (annual physicals or wellness visits, often covered by insurance without co-pay), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests/HPV, mammograms, colon cancer screening, lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals), immunizations (flu shots, shingles, pneumococcal, Tdap), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes and obesity, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early, and promote long-term health.

What happens if Dr. Ernest Enzien determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr. Ernest Enzien determines that your condition requires the expertise of a medical specialist (e.g., a cardiologist, dermatologist, surgeon, psychiatrist), he will discuss the reasons with you and initiate a referral. In the US healthcare system, this often involves Dr. Ernest Enzien's office sending a formal referral request, including your relevant medical information and reason for consult, to the specialist's office. Depending on your insurance plan (especially HMOs), a formal referral from Dr. Ernest Enzien may be required by your insurer for the specialist visit to be covered or for you to receive in-network benefits. Our staff at the clinic will work to find an in-network specialist for you where possible and may assist with any necessary prior authorization process from your insurance. Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly. The specialist's office will typically contact you directly to schedule an appointment once the referral (and any insurance authorization) is processed. Please follow up with our clinic if you encounter issues or haven't heard back within a reasonable timeframe as advised by Dr. Ernest Enzien.

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. Ernest Enzien 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. Ernest Enzien typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Ernest Enzien 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. Ernest Enzien. 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.

Can Dr. Ernest Enzien help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. Ernest Enzien plays a crucial role in mental and behavioral healthcare. He 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. Ernest Enzien 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. Ernest Enzien can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

2 Empire Dr Ste 100
Rensselaer NY 12144
Phone: (518) 286-4899

Dr. Ernest Enzien, MD is regulated by the New York Education Law, Article 131 (Medicine) in New York and is licensed by The New York State Board for Medicine (NYSBOM).

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1144302886

Registration can typically be verified through The New York State Board for Medicine (NYSBOM) 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. Ernest Enzien 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.