Dr. Gladys Estrada, MD – Family Physician | Chicago, IL

Dr. Gladys Estrada, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Chicago, IL. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Gladys Estrada is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (773) 836-2785 to inquire or schedule an appointment.

She is registered with The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board and practices under the Illinois Compiled Statutes, Chapter 225, Act 60 (Medical Practice Act of 1987). Dr. Gladys Estrada 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.

Dr. Gladys Estrada, MD is a family medicine physician in Chicago, IL and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY / MEDICAL CENTER in 2009. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. Her approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Gladys Estrada provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Gladys Estrada is committed to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.

Dr. Gladys Estrada addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Limb Pain: This encompasses various types of pain affecting the arms or legs, often requiring a thorough assessment to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
• Urinary Stones: These are hard deposits that form in the urinary tract, causing pain and potentially requiring medical intervention.
• Vitamin B Deficiency: This condition results from insufficient intake of B vitamins, leading to various health problems that can be addressed through supplementation and dietary changes.
• Allergic Rhinitis: Also known as hay fever, this allergic reaction to airborne allergens causes symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion.
• Insomnia: This sleep disorder makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, impacting overall health and well-being.
• Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis): This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye, often caused by infection or allergies.
• Dysphagia: This involves difficulty swallowing, which can be caused by various factors and requires careful evaluation.
• Chest Pain: This symptom can indicate various underlying health issues, ranging from less serious causes to potentially life-threatening conditions, requiring prompt medical attention.
• Secondary Diabetes Mellitus: This type of diabetes is often caused by another medical condition, requiring careful management to prevent complications.
• ADHD and-or ADD: These neurodevelopmental disorders can impact attention, focus, and behavior, requiring individualized treatment plans.
• Sinusitis: This inflammation of the sinuses can cause pain, pressure, and congestion.
• Pollen Allergy: This is an allergic reaction to pollen, often causing symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis.
• Chronic Pain: This persistent pain can significantly impact a person's quality of life and requires comprehensive management.
• Asthma: This respiratory condition involves inflammation and narrowing of the airways, causing wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

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

• Breast Cancer Screening: This involves various methods to detect breast cancer early, improving the chances of successful treatment.
• Mammography: This is an X-ray examination of the breasts used to detect breast cancer.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: These tests help identify low red blood cell counts or iron deficiency, often leading to effective treatment and improved health.
• Wheelchair Evaluation: This assesses a patient's needs and recommends appropriate wheelchair types to improve mobility and independence.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart, helping diagnose various heart conditions.
• Strep Test: This test helps diagnose streptococcal infections, often guiding appropriate antibiotic treatment.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: This evaluates spinal alignment and posture to identify and address potential problems.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: This involves assessment and management of various sleep issues to improve sleep quality.
• Diabetes Screening: This helps identify individuals with diabetes, allowing for early intervention and management.
• Osteoporosis Screening: This helps detect low bone density, allowing for preventative measures to reduce fracture risk.
• Pre-Operative Evaluation: This assesses a patient's overall health before surgery to ensure safety.
• Detoxification Evaluation: This assesses the need for and appropriate approach to detoxification, often supporting safe and effective treatment.
• Pregnancy Test: This helps confirm pregnancy early on.
• Skin Testing and Screening: This involves various methods to assess skin health and identify potential problems.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Gladys Estrada. 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 Illinois and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board.

Dr. Gladys Estrada 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. Gladys Estrada can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With consistent effort and the right support, patients find themselves falling asleep more easily and waking up feeling refreshed. This allows them to fully engage in their daily activities and enjoy improved energy levels throughout the day.
• Patients experiencing urinary stones often find relief through effective treatment plans, allowing them to return to their active lifestyles without the debilitating pain and discomfort. This renewed mobility and freedom from pain improves their overall quality of life.
• Through careful management of their secondary diabetes mellitus, patients often experience improved blood sugar control and reduced risk of complications. This allows them to participate more fully in life, enjoying increased energy levels and a greater sense of well-being.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Gladys Estrada, 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 Chicago, Illinois area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Chicago and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Chicago. 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. Gladys Estrada. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Gladys Estrada 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: Aetna HMO
  • 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: Select
• Anthem
  • Plan: Blue Choice-ME, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Maine, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Pathway Enhanced-ME, Type: POS
  • Plan: Pathway-ME, Type: HMO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna HMO
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
  • Plan: Harvard Pilgrim Health Care HMO

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. Gladys Estrada 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. Gladys Estrada) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (773) 836-2785 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. Gladys Estrada may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Northern Light Mercy Hospital (Portland, ME)
• Maine Medical Center (Portland, ME)

She earned her medical degree from GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY / MEDICAL CENTER in 2009.

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. Gladys Estrada:

Are services from Dr. Gladys Estrada typically covered by health insurance in Illinois?

As a Family Physician in Illinois, Dr. Gladys Estrada 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 essential that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (773) 836-2785 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Gladys Estrada 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. Gladys Estrada as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Gladys Estrada 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. Gladys Estrada 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. Gladys Estrada, 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.

How often should I see Dr. Gladys Estrada 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. Gladys Estrada). 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. Gladys Estrada follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Gladys Estrada to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care.

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

What does PCP mean and is Dr. Gladys Estrada one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Gladys Estrada, 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 manage a wide range of health concerns and coordinate 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 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, she 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.

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in Illinois who is accepting new patients and takes my insurance?

First, check your health insurance plan's 'Find a Doctor' or 'Provider Directory' tool (often available online or via their member services phone number) to find in-network PCPs. This is the most reliable way to ensure coverage. You can also use the 'Physician Finder' tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The Illinois Medical Board (using Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board if available) website may sometimes have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations of doctors they trust and who might be accepting patients. Contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups, as they often have affiliated family physicians who are accepting new patients and can provide lists of accepted insurances. Finding a doctor can be challenging and may require persistence. Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling your first appointment.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Gladys Estrada?

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. Gladys Estrada 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.

5359 W Fullerton Ave
Chicago IL 60639
Phone: (773) 836-2785

Dr. Gladys Estrada, MD is regulated by the Illinois Compiled Statutes, Chapter 225, Act 60 (Medical Practice Act of 1987) in Illinois and is licensed by The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1124254800

Registration can typically be verified through The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation - Medical Licensing Board 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. Gladys Estrada 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.