Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton, MD – Family Physician | Tampa, FL

Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Tampa, FL. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice).

Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (813) 821-8014 to inquire or schedule an appointment. Her 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. Gwendolyn Clayton, MD is a family medicine physician in Tampa, FL, serving patients of all ages. She is affiliated with medical facilities Tampa General Hospital and Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital. She is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. She is proud to be part of the Optum family of primary care doctors, specialists, and care teams focused on providing care for people ages 65+. At Optum, her team and she help patients reach their personal health goals, focusing on their total well-being while helping them prevent health problems and get support to manage any chronic conditions. Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton is committed to providing compassionate and effective care to her patients, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive.

Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Proteinuria: This condition involves the presence of excess protein in the urine, often indicating kidney problems.
• Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones.
• Outer Ear Infection: An infection of the outer ear canal, often causing pain and inflammation.
• Tobacco Use Disorder: This involves the problematic use of tobacco, leading to health risks and difficulty quitting.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This involves compression of a nerve in the wrist, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling.
• Sprains and Strains (incl. Muscle Tear): Injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments often caused by sudden movements or overuse.
• Fever: An elevated body temperature often indicating an infection or other underlying illness.
• Osteopenia: A condition characterized by bone density lower than normal, increasing the risk of fractures.
• Leg and Foot Ulcers: Open sores on the legs or feet, often caused by poor circulation or other underlying conditions.
• Viral Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver caused by a viral infection.
• Muscle Spasm: Sudden, involuntary contractions of a muscle or muscle group.
• Acute Venous Embolism Thrombosis: A serious condition involving a blood clot in a deep vein, often in the leg.
• Muscle Weakness: A decrease in muscle strength, potentially indicating various health problems.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: A lack of vitamin D in the body, which can affect bone health and overall well-being.

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

• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: A test to detect the presence of the hepatitis B virus.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: Tests to check for low red blood cell counts and iron levels.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: Assessment and management of symptoms related to menopause.
• Immunization Administration: Providing vaccines to protect against various infectious diseases.
• Cancer Screening: Providing recommended cancer screenings based on age, risk factors, and guidelines.
• Lyme Disease Evaluation: Assessment and testing for Lyme disease infection.
• Wellness Examination: A comprehensive health check-up to monitor overall well-being.
• ACTH (Cosyntropin) Stimulation Test: A test to evaluate adrenal gland function.
• Cholesterol Screening: Testing to measure cholesterol levels in the blood.
• Thyroid Screening: Testing to evaluate thyroid hormone levels.
• Ovarian Cancer Screening: Providing recommended screenings for ovarian cancer.
• Patch Testing: A diagnostic test to identify allergens causing skin reactions.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: A test to assess heart function during exercise.
• Mammography: Breast imaging to detect abnormalities.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton. 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 Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton 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. Gwendolyn Clayton can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With the right treatment, patients quickly find relief from the pain and discomfort of an outer ear infection. They are then able to enjoy activities like swimming or listening to music without irritation.
• With effective treatment, patients find relief from debilitating muscle spasms, allowing them to return to their favorite activities and enjoy a more active lifestyle. Their improved mobility and reduced pain significantly enhance their overall quality of life.
• With effective treatment, patients find relief from the numbness and tingling caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, enabling them to return to their favorite hobbies and daily activities with ease. Many rediscover the joy of playing musical instruments or engaging in crafts without pain.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton, 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 located in a family medicine practice in the Tampa, Florida area, conveniently situated near key city attractions and public services. It is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Tampa. 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. Gwendolyn Clayton. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton 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
• AvMed
  • Plan: Choice Large Group, Type: POS
  • Plan: Empower - Small Employer Groups
  • Plan: Empower, Type: POS
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card High Performance Network, Type: HPN
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
  • Plan: Blue Preferred Patient Care, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
  • Plan: Blue Choice, Type: HMO
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
  • Plan: Preferred Patient Care
• Capital Blue Cross
  • Plan: Wellspan Health, Type: PPO
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Florida Blue
  • Plan: BlueOptions, Type: HMO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care Network, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
  • Plan: HMO Premier, Type: HMO
  • Plan: National, Type: POS
  • Plan: Preferred, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Select, Type: HMO
• 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. Gwendolyn Clayton 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. Gwendolyn Clayton) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (813) 821-8014 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. Gwendolyn Clayton may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Tampa General Hospital (Tampa, FL)
• Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital (Saint Petersburg, FL)

She earned her medical degree from University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

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. Gwendolyn Clayton:

Are services from Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton typically covered by health insurance in Florida?

Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton, as a Family Physician in Florida, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, patients must always verify with their specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton is 'in-network' for their plan and to understand their 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. Gwendolyn Clayton as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton 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. Gwendolyn Clayton 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. Gwendolyn Clayton, 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 if Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton works in a group practice or medical group? Will I always see Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton?

Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton practices as part of a medical group, 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. Gwendolyn Clayton, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton 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. Gwendolyn Clayton for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

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

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of what Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton does as your PCP. She will work with you to understand the full picture of your health, help manage various chronic diseases simultaneously, ensure your medications are optimized and appropriate, and coordinate with different specialists to ensure your care is not fragmented and that everyone on your healthcare team is informed. The goal is to provide integrated and patient-centered care that addresses all your needs effectively within the context of your insurance and overall healthcare access.

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

'In-network' means Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton (or the clinic she 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. Gwendolyn Clayton'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.

How long do appointments with Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton typically last?

Typically, a regular appointment with Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton to discuss a specific health concern or for a routine follow-up might last about 15 to 20 minutes. However, if you are a new patient, scheduled for a complete physical exam/preventive visit, or need to discuss multiple or complex health matters, the appointment will likely be scheduled for a longer duration, such as 30 to 45 minutes. Please inform the reception staff at the clinic about the nature and number of concerns you have when booking, so sufficient time with Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton can be arranged to provide quality care.

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

With Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton, 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. Gwendolyn Clayton works with you to create a personalized prevention plan, many components of which may be covered by your health insurance without cost-sharing.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton?

Your first appointment with Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton is an important opportunity to establish care. She will likely review your detailed medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, hospitalizations, allergies, immunizations, and family health history. she will also want to discuss your current health concerns, any medications you are taking (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, supplements - bring the bottles or an accurate list), and your lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol/substance use). A basic physical examination may be performed. This visit is also a chance for you to ask questions about Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton's practice style and for her to explain clinic policies (e.g., appointment scheduling, prescription refills, communication methods, insurance billing procedures, missed appointment fees). You will likely need to provide your insurance card(s), a photo ID, and complete new patient paperwork. The main goal is to gather comprehensive baseline information for optimal ongoing care and to begin building a strong physician-patient relationship.

13330 Usf Laurel Dr
Tampa FL 33612
Phone: (813) 821-8014

Dr. Gwendolyn Clayton, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1073708962

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine 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. Gwendolyn Clayton 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.