Dr. George Evans, MD – Family Physician | Sheffield, AL

Dr. George Evans, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Sheffield, 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. George Evans is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (256) 383-4473 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. He serves patients of all ages.

Dr. George Evans, MD is a family medicine physician in Sheffield, AL and has over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Queen's University Faculty Of Health Sciences in 1978. He is affiliated with medical facilities Helen Keller Hospital and North Alabama Shoals Hospital. With over 45 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. George Evans is committed to providing evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients and contribute to the well-being of the Sheffield community.

Dr. George Evans addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Thyroid Goiter: This condition involves an enlarged thyroid gland, and treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and managing symptoms.
• Back Pain: Back pain can stem from various causes, and treatment involves identifying the source and employing appropriate management strategies.
• Limb Pain: Limb pain can have numerous origins; a thorough evaluation helps determine the cause and recommend suitable treatment.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: This complex condition involves persistent fatigue, and management focuses on symptom relief and improving overall well-being.
• Otitis Media: This is a common ear infection, often treated with medication or other appropriate interventions.
• Pollen Allergy: This allergic reaction to pollen can be managed through various strategies, including medication and avoidance techniques.
• Bladder Infection: Bladder infections are typically treated with antibiotics and other supportive measures.
• Hernia: A hernia involves a protrusion of an organ through a weakened muscle wall, and treatment may include surgery or other methods.
• Prostatitis: This inflammation of the prostate gland is often managed with medication and other appropriate therapies.
• Bronchitis: This inflammation of the bronchial tubes is typically treated with medication and supportive care.
• Osteoarthritis of Hip: This degenerative joint disease affecting the hip is managed through pain relief, physical therapy, and other interventions.
• Foot Infection: Foot infections often require treatment with antibiotics and appropriate wound care.
• Eczema and Contact Dermatitis: These skin conditions are managed with topical treatments and other strategies to reduce inflammation and irritation.
• Osteoarthritis of Spine: This degenerative joint disease affecting the spine is managed through pain relief, physical therapy, and other interventions.

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

• Worker's Compensation Evaluations: These evaluations assess work-related injuries to determine the extent of disability and need for treatment.
• Skin Testing and Screening: These tests help identify allergies and screen for skin conditions.
• Wellness Examination: A comprehensive wellness exam helps maintain optimal health and detect potential problems early.
• Fetal Cardiac Screening: This screening helps detect potential heart problems in the developing fetus.
• Vaginosis Screening: This screening helps detect and manage bacterial vaginosis.
• Geriatric Assessment: A geriatric assessment helps manage the health concerns of older adults.
• Bacteriuria Screening: This screening helps detect bacteria in the urine, indicating a possible urinary tract infection.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: This test helps detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer.
• Psychological Evaluation: This evaluation assesses mental health and provides appropriate treatment recommendations.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: This test helps diagnose diabetes and prediabetes.
• Tuberculosis Screening: This screening helps detect tuberculosis infection.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: This screening helps identify genetic risk factors for breast cancer.
• Blood Allergy Testing: This test identifies allergies to specific substances in the blood.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: This service helps diagnose and treat various sleep disorders.

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

• With appropriate treatment, patients find relief from hernia pain and discomfort, enabling them to return to their favorite activities and enjoy a more active lifestyle. Many are able to resume work and hobbies without the limitations previously imposed by their condition.
• With the right treatment, patients quickly find relief from the discomfort of bladder infections. This allows them to return to their normal activities and feel better overall.
• With effective treatment, patients experience significant relief from prostatitis symptoms, allowing them to return to their normal activities and enjoy a better quality of life. Many find they can resume regular exercise and other enjoyable pursuits without the discomfort previously associated with their condition.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. George Evans, 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 located in a family medicine practice in the Sheffield, Alabama area. It's conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Sheffield and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Sheffield. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Patients usually find parking readily available in the vicinity of the practice.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. George Evans. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. George Evans 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
• Anthem
  • Plan: National (BlueCard), Type: PPO
• AvMed
  • Plan: Open Access
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of California
  • Plan: Dental Blue 100/200/300
• Buckeye Community Health Plan
  • Plan: Medicare
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue 2.0
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access
• Coventry Health Care
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care)
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
• Medicaid
• Midwest Health Plan
  • Plan: Medicaid
• MultiPlan
  • Plan: MultiPlan PPO
  • Plan: PHCS Network, Type: PPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Options, Type: PPO
  • Plan: United Healthcare

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. George Evans 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. George Evans) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (256) 383-4473 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. George Evans may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Helen Keller Hospital (Sheffield, AL)
• North Alabama Shoals Hospital (Muscle Shoals, AL)

He earned his medical degree from Queen's University Faculty Of Health Sciences in 1978.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. George Evans:

Are services from Dr. George Evans typically covered by health insurance in Alabama?

Dr. George Evans, 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 your appointment to confirm that Dr. George Evans 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. George Evans as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. George Evans 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. George Evans 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. George Evans, 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 is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. George Evans?

Having continuity of care with Dr. George Evans means that he is your consistent point of contact for your health needs over many years, serving as your 'medical home'. This long-term relationship allows Dr. George Evans 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.

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

'In-network' means Dr. George Evans (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. George Evans'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 (Family Physician) in the US is a physician who has completed residency training and is typically board-certified in Family Medicine (e.g., by the American Board of Family Medicine - ABFM). He are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the US healthcare system, including coordinating with your insurance plan for necessary care.

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

Preventative care provided by Dr. George Evans aims to stop health issues from occurring or to catch them at an early, more manageable stage, following established US guidelines. This includes regular physical exams or wellness visits (many insurance plans cover one per year), vaccinations, screenings for common conditions like certain cancers or heart disease risk factors (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes), and personalized advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking. It’s about being proactive with your health, and Dr. George Evans can help guide you in these efforts.

Can Dr. George Evans help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. George Evans 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. George Evans 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. George Evans can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

I have multiple health problems (multimorbidity). How does Dr. George Evans handle complex care?

As a Family Physician, Dr. George Evans is specifically trained to manage patients with multiple health problems (multimorbidity) and complex care needs. He will take a holistic approach, considering how your various conditions interact and how treatments for one might affect another. Dr. George Evans will help prioritize your health concerns, coordinate care with any specialists involved (ensuring referrals are appropriate, results are integrated, and treatment plans are aligned), manage your medications to avoid harmful interactions and polypharmacy (reviewing for necessity and effectiveness), and develop a comprehensive, patient-centered care plan that aligns with your overall health goals, values, and quality of life. Open communication about all your conditions, medications, and concerns is key to this process.

340 Cox Blvd
Sheffield AL 35660
Phone: (256) 383-4473

Dr. George Evans, MD 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): 1124073788

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. George Evans 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.