Dr. James Vaughn, MD – Family Physician | Kennewick, WA

Dr. James Vaughn, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Kennewick, WA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. To confirm if Dr. James Vaughn is currently accepting new patients, please contact (509) 221-5520.

Dr. James Vaughn 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. He serves patients of all ages and is registered with The Washington Medical Commission and practices under the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians).

Dr. James Vaughn, MD is a family medicine physician in Kennewick, WA and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from University of Washington in 1993. With over 30 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients. His approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. James Vaughn provides consultations primarily in English. He remains committed to the ongoing well-being of his patients and the Kennewick community.

Dr. James Vaughn addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Acute Sinusitis: This is an inflammation of the sinuses that typically causes facial pain, pressure, and congestion.
• Yeast Infections: These fungal infections commonly affect the skin, mouth, or vagina and can cause itching, burning, and discomfort.
• Diaper Rash: A common skin irritation in infants caused by prolonged exposure to moisture and friction.
• Bronchiolitis: An inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, often affecting infants and young children, causing coughing and wheezing.
• Otitis Media: An infection of the middle ear, commonly causing ear pain and hearing difficulties.
• Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome: This involves persistent pain that is not caused by cancer or other life-threatening conditions.
• Hyperlipidemia: High levels of fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Balanitis: Inflammation of the foreskin and head of the penis.
• Vaginitis or Vaginosis: Inflammation or infection of the vagina.
• Nosebleed: Bleeding from the nose.
• Enteritis: Inflammation of the small intestine.
• Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Low levels of vitamin D in the body.
• Polyuria: The excretion of abnormally large amounts of urine.

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

• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): Measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
• Hepatitis A Screening: A blood test to detect antibodies to the hepatitis A virus.
• Wheelchair Evaluation: Assesses an individual's needs for a wheelchair and determines the appropriate type.
• Trichomoniasis Screening: A test to detect the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis, a sexually transmitted infection.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: Measures how well the body processes glucose (sugar).
• Osteoporosis Screening: A test to assess bone density and risk of osteoporosis.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: A comprehensive assessment of mental health.
• Independent Educational Evaluation: An evaluation of a child's educational needs.
• Bacteriuria Screening: A test for bacteria in the urine.
• Circumcision: A surgical procedure to remove the foreskin of the penis.
• Tuberculosis Screening: A test to detect tuberculosis infection.
• Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan: A test to measure bone density.
• Syphilis Screening: A test to detect syphilis infection.
• Vaccination: Administration of vaccines to protect against various diseases.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. James Vaughn. 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 Washington and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Washington Medical Commission.

Dr. James Vaughn 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. James Vaughn can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Through careful management of their hyperlipidemia, patients often see significant improvements in their cholesterol levels, reducing their risk of heart disease and allowing them to enjoy a more active and fulfilling life. Many find they have increased energy and can participate more fully in the activities they love.
• With effective pain management strategies, many patients find their chronic pain significantly reduced, allowing them to return to favorite activities and enjoy a higher quality of life. They experience renewed mobility and a greater sense of well-being.
• With effective treatment, patients find relief from the painful pressure and congestion of acute sinusitis, allowing them to breathe easier and return to their normal activities. They can once again enjoy work, social events, and favorite hobbies without the constant discomfort.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. James Vaughn, 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 Kennewick, Washington area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Kennewick and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Kennewick. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Convenient patient parking is typically available nearby or on-site.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. James Vaughn. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. James Vaughn 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: 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
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card High Performance Network, Type: HPN
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: LocalPlus
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Group Health Cooperative (GHC)
  • Plan: Coop Core
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
  • Plan: National, Type: POS
• LifeWise
  • Plan: Alpine
  • Plan: Primary
• Moda Health
  • Plan: Connexus, Type: PPO
• Premera Blue Cross
  • Plan: Blue High Performance, Type: Network
  • Plan: Heritage Prime, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Heritage Signature
• Regence Blue Shield of Washington
  • Plan: Blue High Performance Network, Type: HPN
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, 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. James Vaughn 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. James Vaughn) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (509) 221-5520 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 earned his medical degree from University of Washington in 1993.

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

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. James Vaughn:

Are services from Dr. James Vaughn typically covered by health insurance in Washington?

As a Family Physician in Washington, Dr. James Vaughn 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 at (509) 221-5520 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. James Vaughn is 'in-network' for your plan and to understand your specific coverage details, including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and any referral requirements for specialist visits if applicable. Some services, such as most cosmetic procedures, some administrative forms, or 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. James Vaughn as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. James Vaughn 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. James Vaughn 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. James Vaughn, 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.

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

As a Family Physician, Dr. James Vaughn 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. James Vaughn 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.

How often should I see Dr. James Vaughn for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups, often called annual physicals or preventive wellness visits, with Dr. James Vaughn 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. James Vaughn). 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. James Vaughn follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. James Vaughn to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care.

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 it mean for Dr. James Vaughn to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. James Vaughn (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. James Vaughn'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.

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

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in Washington 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 Washington Medical Board (or Washington Medical Commission) website may sometimes have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or 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. Verifying insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling your first appointment is crucial.

7201 W Grandridge Blvd
Kennewick WA 99336
Phone: (509) 221-5520

Dr. James Vaughn, MD is regulated by the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians) in Washington and is licensed by The Washington Medical Commission.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1568430999

Registration can typically be verified through The Washington Medical Commission 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. James Vaughn 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.