Dr. James Wilson, MD – Family Physician | Lakewood, WA

Dr. James Wilson, MD is a Family Physician practicing at Physician Care NW in Lakewood, WA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Washington Medical Commission and practices under the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians). Dr. James Wilson is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (253) 366-5859 to inquire or schedule an appointment.

Dr. James Wilson 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 offers consultations in Spanish. With over 40 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients.

Dr. James Wilson, MD is a family medicine physician in Lakewood, WA and has over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Tulane University School of Medicine in 1981. He is affiliated with medical facilities St. Clare Hospital and MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital. He is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. James Wilson is dedicated to ensuring the ongoing health and well-being of his patients and the community he serves.

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

• Purpura: This condition involves purplish discoloration of the skin due to bleeding under the skin.
• Acute Bronchitis: This is a common respiratory infection causing inflammation of the bronchial tubes.
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): This is a progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe.
• Diabetes Type 2: This is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar.
• Atherosclerosis: This involves the buildup of plaque in the arteries, potentially leading to heart disease.
• Painful Urination (Dysuria): This is pain or burning during urination, often indicating a urinary tract infection.
• Varicose Eczema: This is a skin condition characterized by inflammation and thickening of the skin.
• Sleep-Related Leg Cramp: This involves painful muscle spasms that occur during sleep.
• Ringworm: This is a fungal infection causing a circular rash on the skin.
• Peptic Ulcer: This is a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach or duodenum.
• Osteopenia: This is a condition where bone density is lower than normal, increasing the risk of fractures.
• Fibromyalgia: This is a chronic condition causing widespread pain and fatigue.
• Overweight: This refers to having a body mass index (BMI) above the healthy range.
• Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by infection.

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

• Health Screening: Regular checkups to assess overall health and identify potential problems early.
• Pregnancy Test: A test to determine if someone is pregnant.
• Immunization Administration: Providing vaccines to protect against various infectious diseases.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): A test that measures the electrical activity of the heart.
• Bone Density Scan: A test to measure bone density, helping to assess the risk of osteoporosis.
• Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan: A specific type of bone density scan.
• Lyme Disease Evaluation: Assessment for Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks.
• Diabetes Screening: Testing to identify the presence of diabetes.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: A screening test for colorectal cancer.
• Fetal Cardiac Screening: Ultrasound evaluation of the fetal heart during pregnancy.
• Patch Testing: A test to identify allergies to specific substances.
• Diabetes Counseling: Education and support for managing diabetes.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: Assessment of posture and spine health.
• Cholesterol Screening: Testing to measure cholesterol levels.

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

• With effective treatment, patients find relief from their bronchitis symptoms, allowing them to breathe easier and return to their normal activities, free from persistent coughing and shortness of breath. They are able to enjoy a full and active life once again.
• With proper treatment, patients experience significant relief from the itching and inflammation associated with varicose eczema, allowing them to comfortably participate in activities they enjoy without the constant discomfort. This improved skin health boosts their confidence and enhances their overall quality of life.
• With careful management, many patients find their blood sugar levels stabilize, leading to increased energy and a renewed ability to enjoy favorite activities. This improved control helps them feel healthier and more confident in their daily lives.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. James Wilson, 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 Lakewood, Washington area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Lakewood and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Lakewood. 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. James Wilson. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. James Wilson 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
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue 2.0
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: LocalPlus
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• First Choice Health
  • Plan: First Choice Health PPO
• Government Employees Health Association (GEHA)
  • Plan: GEHA
• Group Health Cooperative (GHC)
  • Plan: Group Health Cooperative
• Humana
• LifeWise
• Mail Handlers Benefit Plan (MHBP)
• Meritain Health
• Midwest Health Plan
  • Plan: Medicaid
• Premera Blue Cross
  • Plan: Heritage Signature
  • Plan: Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield, Type: PPO
• Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Preferred Provider Network PPN
• Regence Blue Shield of Washington
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: POS
  • Plan: Options, Type: PPO
  • Plan: United Healthcare
• Workers Compensation

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 Wilson 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 Wilson) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (253) 366-5859 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. James Wilson may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• St. Clare Hospital (Lakewood, WA)
• MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital (Tacoma, WA)

He earned his medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in 1981. He completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at Usaf Medical Center|USAF Med Center (graduated 1982). Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Creighton University (graduated 1984), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

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

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

Dr. James Wilson, as a Family Physician in Washington, 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 Physician Care NW's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. James Wilson 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. Ask the clinic about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

Do I typically need a referral to see Dr. James Wilson as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. James Wilson 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 Wilson 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 Wilson, 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 does it mean for Dr. James Wilson to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. James Wilson (or Physician Care NW 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 Wilson'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 should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. James Wilson?

Your first appointment with Dr. James Wilson 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. James Wilson'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.

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. 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 have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. 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 the first appointment is crucial.

Does Dr. James Wilson at Physician Care NW offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Dr. James Wilson at Physician Care NW 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. James Wilson 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. James Wilson before scheduling such an appointment.

What if Dr. James Wilson works in a group practice or medical group? Will I always see Dr. James Wilson?

Dr. James Wilson practices as part of Physician Care NW, 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. James Wilson, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. James Wilson 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. Physician Care NW will always strive to have you see Dr. James Wilson for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

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. They 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.

Physician Care NW
5920 100th St SW Ste 11
Lakewood WA 98499
Phone: (253) 366-5859

Dr. James Wilson, 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): 1518913680

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 Wilson 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.