Dr. Jeffery Dockery, MD – Family Physician | Douglas, GA

Dr. Jeffery Dockery, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Douglas, GA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Jeffery Dockery is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (912) 389-4586 to inquire or schedule an appointment.

He is registered with The Georgia Composite Medical Board and practices under the Georgia Code, Title 43, Chapter 34 (Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Others). His focus is 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. Jeffery Dockery, MD is a family medicine physician in Douglas, GA and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Mercer University School of Medicine in 1992. He is affiliated with Coffee Regional Medical Center. With over 30 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients. He serves patients of all ages and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Jeffery Dockery provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Jeffery Dockery is dedicated to providing the best possible care and improving the health and well-being of his patients and the Douglas community.

Dr. Jeffery Dockery addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Acute Pharyngitis: This is an inflammation of the pharynx, commonly known as a sore throat, often caused by viral or bacterial infection.
• Restless Leg Syndrome: This neurological disorder causes an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.
• Back Pain: Back pain can stem from various causes, including muscle strains, arthritis, or spinal problems, and is managed with a range of treatments.
• Menopausal and Postmenopausal Disorders: These encompass the various physical and emotional changes experienced by women during and after menopause.
• Thrush: Thrush is a fungal infection in the mouth or throat, often characterized by white patches.
• Heart Palpitations: These are sensations of a rapid, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat.
• Hypotension (Excluding Maternal): This refers to low blood pressure, which can have various underlying causes.
• Anemia: Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood.
• Mild Asthma: Mild asthma is a chronic respiratory condition causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white part of the eye) caused by an allergic reaction.
• Fever: Fever is an elevated body temperature, often a sign of infection or illness.
• Magnesium Metabolism Disorders: These are conditions affecting the body's ability to absorb, utilize, or excrete magnesium.
• Diabetes Type 1: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body does not produce insulin.
• Benign Chronic Pain Syndrome: This involves chronic pain without a clear underlying cause.

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

• Mammography: This is an X-ray imaging technique used to detect breast abnormalities.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: This involves assessing the spine and posture to identify potential problems.
• Detoxification Evaluation: This is an assessment to determine the extent of substance abuse and potential need for detoxification.
• Syphilis Screening: This screening test detects the presence of syphilis infection.
• Bone Density Scan: This scan measures bone mineral density to assess risk of osteoporosis.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: This ultrasound procedure provides images of the heart to assess its structure and function.
• Diabetic Evaluation: This evaluation assesses blood sugar levels and overall diabetic health.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: This service screens for alcohol misuse and provides counseling if necessary.
• Home Sleep Study: This study monitors sleep patterns and breathing at home to diagnose sleep disorders.
• Herpes Simplex Screening: This test detects the presence of herpes simplex virus infection.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: This screening detects anemia and iron deficiency.
• Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: This procedure involves draining fluid or pus from an abscess.
• Worker's Compensation Evaluations: These evaluations assess work-related injuries for workers' compensation claims.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This evaluation assesses mental health and potential psychiatric disorders.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Jeffery Dockery. 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 Georgia and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Georgia Composite Medical Board.

Dr. Jeffery Dockery 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. Jeffery Dockery can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With careful monitoring and diligent management of their Type 1 diabetes, patients often experience improved blood sugar control and significantly reduced risks of long-term complications. This allows them to participate more fully in life's activities, enjoying increased energy levels and a greater sense of well-being.
• With proper management, patients find their asthma symptoms significantly reduced, allowing them to participate more fully in activities they enjoy, such as sports or other physical pursuits. Breathing easier translates to a greater sense of well-being and improved quality of life.
• With prompt treatment, patients quickly reduce their fever and experience relief from associated discomfort, allowing them to return to their normal activities and feel better overall. Many find they can resume work, school, or social engagements much sooner than expected.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Jeffery Dockery, 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 Douglas, Georgia area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Douglas and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Douglas. 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. Jeffery Dockery. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Jeffery Dockery or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• Anthem
  • Plan: Blue Open Access Alternate Network, Type: POS
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
  • Plan: Blue Choice, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Blue Open Access, Type: POS
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus

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. Jeffery Dockery 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. Jeffery Dockery) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (912) 389-4586 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. Jeffery Dockery may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Coffee Regional Medical Center (Douglas, GA)

He earned his medical degree from Mercer University School of Medicine in 1992.

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. Jeffery Dockery:

Are services from Dr. Jeffery Dockery typically covered by health insurance in Georgia?

Dr. Jeffery Dockery, as a Family Physician in Georgia, 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 prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Jeffery Dockery 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. Jeffery Dockery as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Jeffery Dockery 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. Jeffery Dockery 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. Jeffery Dockery, 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 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.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Jeffery Dockery?

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. Jeffery Dockery's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Jeffery Dockery 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. Jeffery Dockery, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Jeffery Dockery, 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 does PCP mean and is Dr. Jeffery Dockery one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Jeffery Dockery, as a Family Physician, serves as a PCP for his 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. He 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 does it mean for Dr. Jeffery Dockery to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. Jeffery Dockery (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. Jeffery Dockery'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. Jeffery Dockery typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Jeffery Dockery can vary depending on the reason for your visit. In the US, standard appointments for a single, focused issue or a routine follow-up are often scheduled for 15-20 minutes. Appointments for more complex issues, a comprehensive 'annual physical' or 'preventive wellness visit' (especially Medicare Annual Wellness Visits, which have specific components), a new patient intake appointment, in-depth counseling, or an in-office minor procedure will usually be scheduled for a longer duration, perhaps 30-45 minutes or even more. When booking your appointment at the clinic, it's always best to briefly mention the reason for your visit so the staff can try to allocate the appropriate amount of time with Dr. Jeffery Dockery. If you have multiple unrelated issues to discuss, you might be advised to book a longer appointment or schedule separate visits to ensure each concern can be addressed thoroughly without rushing.

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

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

310 Bryan St W
Douglas GA 31533
Phone: (912) 389-4586

Dr. Jeffery Dockery, MD is regulated by the Georgia Code, Title 43, Chapter 34 (Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Others) in Georgia and is licensed by The Georgia Composite Medical Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1831182674

Registration can typically be verified through The Georgia Composite Medical 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. Jeffery Dockery 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.