Dr. Jessica Almaguer, DNP – Family Physician | Kennewick, WA

Dr. Jessica Almaguer, DNP is a Family Physician practicing at Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care in Kennewick, WA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Jessica DNP is registered with The Washington Medical Commission and practices under the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians).

Dr. Jessica DNP is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (509) 942-3291 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.

Jessica is native to the Tri-Cities and has been working as a registered nurse at Kadlec Regional medical Center since 2005. While working as a nurse, she became extremely passionate about promoting wellness and disease prevention. Now as a nurse practitioner, she provides care for the whole family, seeing patients of all ages. Jessica's goal is to create a strong relationship with each patient. She encourages them to be active participants in their health, resulting in better quality of life. Dr. Jessica DNP provides consultations primarily in English. She is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships to ensure the best possible outcomes for her patients and the community.

Dr. Jessica DNP addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Seborrhea Capitis: Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes a flaky, itchy scalp.
• Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: This is a type of cancer affecting the skin.
• Lentigo Maligna Melanoma: This type of skin cancer starts in the skin's top layer and can sometimes develop into a more serious form of melanoma.
• Extra Nipples: Extra nipples are a relatively common congenital condition.
• Pterygium: A pterygium is a non-cancerous growth on the eye that may affect vision.
• Parapsoriasis Lichenoides: This skin disorder may involve reddish, slightly raised areas on the skin.
• Scabies: Scabies is a skin condition caused by mites, requiring treatment to alleviate intense itching and rash.

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

• Prostate Cancer Treatment: This involves managing and treating prostate cancer.
• Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the lungs to examine the airways.
• TCD Bubble Test: This brain scan checks for potentially dangerous air bubbles in the blood.
• GERD Treatment: Treatment options are available to manage and relieve heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.
• Breast Cancer Screening: Tests help detect signs of breast cancer before symptoms appear.
• Heart Aware Risk Assessment: This assesses individual risk factors for heart problems.
• Lymph Node Biopsy or Excision: This procedure examines a lymph node for abnormalities, such as cancer.

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

• Early detection and treatment allowed patients to successfully remove the cancerous lesion, restoring their confidence and enabling them to enjoy outdoor activities without fear. They are able to resume their active lifestyles, knowing that regular monitoring helps maintain their health.
• With proper treatment, patients experiencing seborrheic dermatitis find relief from the persistent itching and flaking, allowing them to confidently enjoy activities like wearing their favorite hats or going out without self-consciousness. Their improved scalp health boosts their overall confidence and well-being.
• Patients with extra nipples often find reassurance and appropriate management, leading to a comfortable understanding of their condition and allowing them to confidently pursue their daily activities without unnecessary worry. This simple process often restores peace of mind and allows them to focus on other aspects of their lives.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Jessica DNP, 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 situated in a family medicine practice in the Kennewick, Washington area, conveniently located near key city attractions and public services. It 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. Jessica DNP. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Jessica DNP 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
• 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
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care, 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. Jessica DNP 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. Jessica DNP) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (509) 942-3291 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. Jessica DNP may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Kadlec Regional Medical Center (Richland, WA)

Dr. Jessica DNP has completed all necessary medical education and holds current licensure. Specifics can be discussed or verified with The Washington Medical Commission.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Jessica DNP:

Are services from Dr. Jessica DNP typically covered by health insurance in Washington?

As a Family Physician in Washington, Dr. Jessica DNP likely accepts various health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs (patients should verify Medicaid participation directly). However, it is absolutely crucial that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care's office *prior to scheduling an appointment* to confirm that Dr. Jessica DNP 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 (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. If you are uninsured or self-pay, please inquire with the clinic about their policies.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral to see Dr. Jessica DNP 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. Jessica DNP 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. Jessica DNP, 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 your specific insurance plan's referral requirements.

How long do appointments with Dr. Jessica DNP typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Jessica DNP 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 Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care, 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. Jessica DNP. 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 is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Jessica DNP?

Continuity of care refers to the process where your Family Physician, Dr. Jessica DNP, sees you for your health needs on an ongoing basis, rather than seeing different doctors for different issues. This consistency is valuable because Dr. Jessica DNP becomes familiar with your medical background, your lifestyle, and what's 'normal' for you. This knowledge aids in quicker diagnosis, more effective treatment plans, better chronic disease management, and ensures that your care is well-coordinated, especially important when dealing with multiple specialists or navigating complex insurance plans. It's about having a trusted healthcare partner throughout your life who understands your complete health picture.

What happens if Dr. Jessica DNP determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr. Jessica DNP determines that your condition requires the expertise of a medical specialist (e.g., a cardiologist, dermatologist, surgeon, psychiatrist), she will discuss the reasons with you and initiate a referral. In the US healthcare system, this often involves Dr. Jessica DNP's office sending a formal referral request, including your relevant medical information and reason for consult, to the specialist's office. Depending on your insurance plan (especially HMOs), a formal referral from Dr. Jessica DNP may be required by your insurer for the specialist visit to be covered or for you to receive in-network benefits. Our staff at Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care will work to find an in-network specialist for you where possible and may assist with any necessary prior authorization process from your insurance. Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly. The specialist's office will typically contact you directly to schedule an appointment once the referral (and any insurance authorization) is processed. Please follow up with Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care if you encounter issues or haven't heard back within a reasonable timeframe as advised by Dr. Jessica DNP.

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

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care 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 Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care, 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 [(509) 942-3291] 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 it mean for Dr. Jessica DNP to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. Jessica DNP (or Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care 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. Jessica DNP'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.

Kadlec Clinic - West Kennewick Primary Care
9040 W Clearwater Ave
Kennewick WA 99336
Phone: (509) 942-3291

Dr. Jessica Almaguer, DNP 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): 1588010532

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. Jessica DNP 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.