Dr. Gary Bullock, DO – Family Physician | Hoover, AL

Dr. Gary Bullock, DO is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Hoover, AL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and practices under the Code of Alabama, Title 34, Chapter 24 (Physicians and Other Practitioners of Healing Arts).

Dr. Gary Bullock is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (205) 481-8530 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. Gary Bullock serves patients of all ages and has a particular interest in ADHD treatment from a primary care perspective. He believes that effective ADHD treatment, supported by the best evidence, usually requires medication combined with the systematic training of new behavior patterns to address inherent challenges with tedious tasks. A crucial element of his care philosophy is recalibrating self-assessment to avoid feelings of guilt, shame, or fear of disappointing others. Dr. Gary Bullock provides consultations primarily in English. He is committed to helping his patients achieve optimal health and well-being within their communities.

Dr. Gary Bullock addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Anxiety: Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry and fear that can significantly impact daily life.
• Black Hairy Tongue: My tongue looks black and hairy.
• Insomnia: Insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to daytime fatigue.
• Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea involves pauses in breathing during sleep, often leading to daytime sleepiness and other health problems.
• Abrasion: Damage to the outer layer of skin caused by friction or rubbing.
• Impetigo: Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection, often characterized by blisters and sores.
• ADHD and-or ADD: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADD) are neurodevelopmental conditions affecting attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

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

• VAP Lipid Testing: VAP Lipid Testing helps assess cardiovascular risk by measuring lipids in the blood.
• Pre-Operative Evaluation: A pre-operative evaluation assesses a patient's health before surgery to ensure they are fit for the procedure.
• Joint Fluid Test: A joint fluid test helps diagnose joint conditions by analyzing fluid from the affected joint.
• Arrhythmia Screening: Arrhythmia screening detects irregular heartbeats, helping identify potential heart problems.
• Drug Allergy Testing: Drug allergy testing identifies allergic reactions to medications, aiding in safe medication choices.
• Geriatric Assessment: A geriatric assessment comprehensively evaluates the health of older adults.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: Psychological evaluations help assess a patient's readiness and suitability for bariatric surgery.
• Melanoma Screening: Melanoma screening helps detect skin cancer early through visual examination and potentially biopsy.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: A cardiovascular stress test evaluates heart function during exercise to detect potential issues.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: Alcohol misuse screening and counseling help identify and address alcohol abuse.
• Independent Educational Evaluation: Independent educational evaluations assess a child's learning needs for educational planning.
• Dyslexia Assessment: Dyslexia assessment identifies reading difficulties and helps develop appropriate interventions.
• Impairment Rating Evaluation: Impairment rating evaluations assess the degree of functional limitations due to injury or illness.
• Diabetic Evaluation: A diabetic evaluation helps manage diabetes through monitoring and treatment planning.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Gary Bullock. 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 Alabama and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners.

Dr. Gary Bullock 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. Gary Bullock can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With improved sleep hygiene and personalized strategies, patients suffering from insomnia find themselves waking refreshed and energized. This renewed vitality allows them to fully participate in daily life and enjoy activities they previously found difficult.
• With the right treatment, patients quickly see their impetigo clear up, allowing them to comfortably return to school, work, and other activities without worrying about spreading the infection. The healing process restores confidence and allows for a full return to normal life.
• With effective management strategies, patients find they can better focus and organize their thoughts and actions, leading to improved academic or professional performance and enhanced personal relationships. This newfound clarity and control allows them to pursue goals and enjoy a more fulfilling life.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Gary Bullock, 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 Hoover, Alabama area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Hoover and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Hoover. 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. Gary Bullock. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Gary Bullock or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

Dr. Gary Bullock and the clinic may participate in various health insurance plans common in Alabama. 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. Gary Bullock 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. Gary Bullock) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (205) 481-8530 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.

Information on hospital affiliations can be obtained by contacting the clinic.

He completed rigorous medical training from recognized institutions. He completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at Medical College Of Ga Hospitals And Clinics (graduated 2001). Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Augusta University Medical College of Georgia, honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

Are services from Dr. Gary Bullock typically covered by health insurance in Alabama?

Dr. Gary Bullock, as a Family Physician in Alabama, 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 prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Gary Bullock 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. Gary Bullock as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Gary Bullock 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. Gary Bullock 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. Gary Bullock, 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 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Gary Bullock in the US?

With Dr. Gary Bullock, preventative care means taking proactive steps to maintain your health and prevent future illness. This encompasses services like scheduled immunizations (flu, pneumonia, shingles, etc.), screenings for diseases you might be at risk for (based on USPSTF recommendations for your age, family history, etc.), discussions about lifestyle modifications to reduce risks (e.g., related to nutrition, physical activity, substance use), and regular health assessments to monitor your overall status. Dr. Gary Bullock works with you to create a personalized prevention plan, many components of which may be covered by your health insurance without cost-sharing.

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

Dr. Gary Bullock 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. Gary Bullock, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. Gary Bullock 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. Gary Bullock for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

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

'In-network' means Dr. Gary Bullock (or the clinic he 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. Gary Bullock'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 bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Gary Bullock?

For every appointment with Dr. Gary Bullock, please bring your current health insurance card(s) and a valid photo ID (like a driver's license). It is also very helpful to bring an up-to-date list of all your current medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, along with their dosages and why you take them. If you have them, any relevant medical records, recent test results (blood work, imaging reports from other facilities), or letters from other doctors can be useful, especially if you are seeing Dr. Gary Bullock for the first time or for a specific complex problem. Having a written list of your questions or concerns can also help ensure you cover everything you need to during your visit. Be prepared to pay any co-payment or deductible amount as required by your insurance plan at the time of service.

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

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

Continuity of care refers to the process where your Family Physician, Dr. Gary Bullock, sees you for your health needs on an ongoing basis, rather than seeing different doctors for different issues. This consistency is valuable because Dr. Gary Bullock becomes familiar with your medical background, your lifestyle, and what's 'normal' for you. This knowledge aids in quicker diagnosis, more effective treatment plans, better chronic disease management, and ensures that your care is well-coordinated, especially important when dealing with multiple specialists or navigating complex insurance plans. It's about having a trusted healthcare partner throughout your life who understands your complete health picture.

430 Emery Dr Ste 700
Hoover AL 35244
Phone: (205) 481-8530

Dr. Gary Bullock, DO is regulated by the Code of Alabama, Title 34, Chapter 24 (Physicians and Other Practitioners of Healing Arts) in Alabama and is licensed by The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1306948898

Registration can typically be verified through The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners 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. Gary Bullock 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.