Dr. Hugh Prentice, DO – Family Physician | Easton, PA

Dr. Hugh Prentice, DO is a Family Physician practicing at St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks in Easton, PA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine and practices under the Pennsylvania Statutes, Title 63, Chapter 15 (Medical Practice Act of 1985).

Dr. Hugh Prentice is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (484) 503-6400 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. Hugh Prentice chose a career in family medicine because of the special relationships built in primary care. He builds trust with his patients, learns their goals, and grows with them throughout their lives. He earned his medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency at Tower Health Reading Hospital. After a year in Reading, he returned to the Easton area. He is currently board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Emily, and family, and pursues hobbies such as woodworking, wood burning, wood carving, and cycling. Dr. Hugh Prentice provides consultations primarily in English. He is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to his patients and the Easton community.

Dr. Hugh Prentice addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Acute Bronchitis: This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, typically causing a cough and shortness of breath.
• Outer Ear Infection: An infection of the outer ear canal, often causing pain, redness, and swelling.
• Reflux Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus caused by stomach acid reflux, leading to heartburn and other symptoms.
• Heart Disease: Encompasses various conditions affecting the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
• Earwax Buildup: Excessive earwax can impair hearing and cause discomfort; often managed with appropriate cleaning techniques.
• Arthritis: A group of conditions causing joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
• Wheezing: A whistling sound during breathing, often indicating airway narrowing.
• Ringworm: A fungal infection of the skin, causing a characteristic ring-shaped rash.
• Pediatric Obesity: Excessive weight in children, often addressed through lifestyle modifications and nutritional guidance.
• Secondary Renovascular Hypertension: High blood pressure caused by reduced blood flow to the kidneys.
• Candidiasis of Skin and Nails: A yeast infection affecting the skin and nails.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux, often causing heartburn and other digestive problems.
• Thrush: A yeast infection of the mouth and throat.
• Headache: Pain in the head, which can have various underlying causes.

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

• STD Screening: Testing for sexually transmitted diseases to detect and treat infections early.
• Blood Allergy Testing: Identifying specific allergens that trigger allergic reactions in the blood.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: Testing for various STIs to facilitate prompt diagnosis and treatment.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: A convenient online tool to assess your risk for heart disease.
• Strep Test: Detecting the presence of Streptococcus bacteria, often responsible for strep throat.
• Dipstick Urinalysis: A quick test to analyze urine for various health indicators.
• VAP Lipid Testing: Testing lipid levels to assess heart health risks.
• Syphilis Screening: Testing for syphilis, a bacterial infection.
• Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: Managing care for patients with multiple health conditions.
• Lyme Disease Evaluation: Assessment for Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: Managing symptoms associated with menopause.
• Pre-Operative Evaluation: Assessing a patient's health before surgery.
• Home Sleep Study: Assessing sleep patterns and potential sleep disorders at home.
• McMurray's Test: A physical examination test for meniscus tears in the knee.

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

Dr. Hugh Prentice 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. Hugh Prentice can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With proper management, patients find relief from the burning pain and discomfort of reflux esophagitis, allowing them to enjoy meals and social events without worry. They can then fully participate in life's activities once again.
• With careful management, many patients find their GERD symptoms significantly reduced, allowing them to enjoy meals and social events without the discomfort and worry of heartburn. This improved quality of life enables them to fully participate in activities they love.
• With prompt treatment, patients quickly find relief from the pain and discomfort of their outer ear infections. They are then able to enjoy activities like swimming or listening to music without irritation.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Hugh Prentice, 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.

St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks is conveniently located in the Easton, Pennsylvania area, near key city attractions and public services. It is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Easton. 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. Hugh Prentice. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Hugh Prentice 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: AWH NJ Choice MultiTier - Standard Savings
  • Plan: AWH NJ Choice MultiTier, Type: POS II
  • 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
• Amerihealth
  • Plan: Personal Choice, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Regional Preferred POS Plus
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Geisinger Health Plan
  • Plan: Geisinger Choice with no Referral
• Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BCBS, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Community Blue, Type: PPO
  • Plan: PPOBlue, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Performance Blue
• Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
  • Plan: Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Type: POS
  • Plan: Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Type: PPO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care Network, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
• Independence Blue Cross
  • Plan: Keystone HMO, Type: HMO-POS
• UPMC
  • Plan: UPMC PPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: MD IPA/Optimum Choice HMO/Preferred POS HMO, Type: HMO-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. Hugh Prentice 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. Hugh Prentice) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (484) 503-6400 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. Hugh Prentice may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital (Orwigsburg, PA)
• Saint Luke's Hospital Anderson (Easton, PA)
• St. Luke's Hospital-Bethlehem Campus (Bethlehem, PA)
• Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center (Reading, PA)
• St. Luke's Hospital-Warren Campus (Phillipsburg, NJ)
• St. Luke's Hospital-Easton Campus (Easton, PA)
• Reading Hospital (Reading, PA)

He earned his medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

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

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Hugh Prentice:

Are services from Dr. Hugh Prentice typically covered by health insurance in Pennsylvania?

As a Family Physician in Pennsylvania, Dr. Hugh Prentice 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 imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Hugh Prentice is 'in-network' for your plan and 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. Hugh Prentice as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Hugh Prentice 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. Hugh Prentice 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. Hugh Prentice, 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 should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency (such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, or major trauma), please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ER) immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks, may have an on-call physician or an answering service that can direct you to appropriate care or provide advice for urgent patient queries after hours; please check our clinic voicemail [(484) 503-6400] or website for specific after-hours instructions. Your insurance plan may also offer a 24/7 nurse advice line that can help you determine the best course of action.

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

Preventative care with Dr. Hugh Prentice 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 is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Hugh Prentice?

Having continuity of care with Dr. Hugh Prentice 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. Hugh Prentice 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.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Hugh Prentice?

For most routine prescription refills, please contact your pharmacy first, ideally 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often send an electronic refill request directly to Dr. Hugh Prentice's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Hugh Prentice and the pharmacy. For certain medications (e.g., controlled substances like opioids or stimulants, or medications requiring close monitoring like blood thinners), or if it has been a significant time (e.g., as determined by Dr. Hugh Prentice, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Hugh Prentice, an appointment will likely be required to assess your condition, ensure the medication is still appropriate and at the correct dose, and meet regulatory requirements. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization for certain medications, which our office can help initiate, but this can add time. It is always best to request refills proactively and not wait until you are completely out of medication.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Hugh Prentice?

Your first appointment with Dr. Hugh Prentice is an important opportunity to establish care. He will likely review your detailed medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, hospitalizations, allergies, immunizations, and family health history. He 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. Hugh Prentice's practice style and for him 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.

Does Dr. Hugh Prentice at St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Hugh Prentice at St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks may offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate, permitted by state regulations, and covered by your insurance plan. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, certain prescription renewals (not typically for new controlled substances), or some mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions, new significant problems, or situations requiring a physical examination (like listening to your heart/lungs or examining a rash) will still necessitate an in-person visit for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Hugh Prentice if a telehealth appointment might be suitable for your specific needs. Insurance coverage, co-pays, and deductibles for telehealth visits can vary significantly by plan and insurer; please verify with your insurance provider and our clinic regarding your specific plan's coverage for telehealth services with Dr. Hugh Prentice before scheduling such an appointment.

St. Luke's Family Practice - Forks
2003 Sullivan Trl
Easton PA 18040
Phone: (484) 503-6400

Dr. Hugh Prentice, DO is regulated by the Pennsylvania Statutes, Title 63, Chapter 15 (Medical Practice Act of 1985) in Pennsylvania and is licensed by The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1578095089

Registration can typically be verified through The Pennsylvania State 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. Hugh Prentice 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.