Dr. Jessica Briggs, DO – Family Physician | Norwalk, IA

To confirm if Dr. Jessica Briggs is currently accepting new patients, please contact (515) 974-0800.

Dr. Jessica Briggs, DO is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Norwalk, IA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Iowa Board of Medicine and practices under the Iowa Code, Chapter 148 (Medicine). Dr. Briggs provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Jessica Briggs 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. She serves patients of all ages.

Dr. Jessica Briggs, DO is a family medicine physician in Norwalk, IA. She is affiliated with Mercyone Des Moines Medical Center. Her approach to care emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Briggs is committed to the ongoing health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.

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

• Urinary Incontinence: This condition involves the involuntary leakage of urine, and treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medication, or physical therapy.
• Constipation: This refers to infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often addressed through dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and sometimes medication.
• Ingrown Nail: This occurs when a toenail or fingernail grows into the surrounding skin, and treatment typically involves proper nail trimming and sometimes minor surgical intervention.
• Long COVID Disorder: This encompasses a range of persistent symptoms following a COVID-19 infection, and management focuses on addressing individual symptoms and improving overall well-being.
• Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome: This condition involves an abnormally increased heart rate upon standing, and treatment strategies often focus on lifestyle adjustments and medication.
• Limb Pain: This can stem from various causes, and diagnosis and treatment involve assessing the underlying source of discomfort.
• Leukocytopenia: This is a condition characterized by a low white blood cell count, usually requiring further investigation to determine the underlying cause.
• Strep Throat: This bacterial infection of the throat is typically diagnosed through a rapid strep test and treated with antibiotics.
• Muscle Spasm: These involuntary muscle contractions can be managed through rest, stretching, and sometimes medication.
• Altitude Sickness: This occurs at high altitudes due to decreased oxygen levels and is typically managed by descending to a lower altitude.
• Foot Infection: Infections of the foot may require treatment with antibiotics and proper wound care.
• Newborn Jaundice: This yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes in newborns is often temporary and managed through monitoring and sometimes phototherapy.
• Pharyngitis: This inflammation of the throat can be caused by viruses or bacteria and may be treated with supportive care or antibiotics.
• Thrush: This yeast infection of the mouth is often treated with antifungal medication.

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

• Pregnancy Test: A simple test to detect pregnancy hormones.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): A test that measures the electrical activity of the heart.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: A necessary assessment to evaluate psychological readiness for weight-loss surgery.
• Vaginosis Screening: A screening test to detect vaginal infections.
• Tuberculosis Screening: A screening test for tuberculosis infection.
• Bacteriuria Screening: A test to detect bacteria in the urine.
• Cancer Screening: Various screenings to detect early signs of cancer.
• Chest Pain Evaluation: A thorough evaluation to determine the cause of chest pain.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: Screening for various sexually transmitted infections.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: A specific test to detect Chlamydia infection.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: Genetic testing to assess risk for breast cancer.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: Tests to check for anemia and iron deficiency.
• Joint Fluid Test: Analysis of fluid from a joint to diagnose conditions such as arthritis.
• Strep Test: A rapid test to detect Streptococcus bacteria.

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

Dr. Jessica Briggs 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 Briggs can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients experiencing constipation found relief through personalized treatment plans, enabling them to regain comfortable bowel regularity and enjoy their daily activities without discomfort. This restored sense of well-being significantly improved their quality of life.
• With effective treatment, patients find relief from debilitating muscle spasms, allowing them to return to their favorite activities and enjoy a more active lifestyle. This improved mobility significantly enhances their overall quality of life.
• With prompt treatment, patients experiencing foot infections often see a rapid reduction in pain and swelling, allowing them to comfortably resume their favorite activities, such as walking and gardening, without discomfort.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Jessica Briggs, 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 Norwalk, Iowa area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Norwalk and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Norwalk. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Patients usually find parking readily available in the vicinity of the practice.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Jessica Briggs. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Jessica Briggs 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
  • 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, Type: PPO
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• HealthPartners
  • Plan: MN Open Access
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care Network, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Medica Choice
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: POS
  • Plan: Nexus Open Access
  • Plan: Options, Type: PPO
• Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield
  • Plan: Alliance Select
  • Plan: Blue, 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 Briggs 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 Briggs) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (515) 974-0800 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 Briggs may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Mercyone Des Moines Medical Center (Des Moines, IA)

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

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

Are services from Dr. Jessica Briggs typically covered by health insurance in Iowa?

Dr. Jessica Briggs, as a Family Physician in Iowa, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, it is absolutely essential that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (515) 974-0800 prior to scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. Jessica Briggs 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. 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. Jessica Briggs as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Jessica Briggs 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 Briggs 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 Briggs, 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 expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Jessica Briggs?

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

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

As a Family Physician, Dr. Jessica Briggs is specifically trained to manage patients with multiple health problems (multimorbidity) and complex care needs. She will take a holistic approach, considering how your various conditions interact and how treatments for one might affect another. Dr. Jessica Briggs 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. Jessica Briggs for a check-up or physical exam?

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

What does it mean for Dr. Jessica Briggs to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. Jessica Briggs (or the clinic 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 Briggs'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 do if I have an urgent medical issue when the clinic 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 our clinic reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like ours, 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 [(515) 974-0800] 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 happens if Dr. Jessica Briggs determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr. Jessica Briggs 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 Briggs'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 Briggs may be required by your insurer for the specialist visit to be covered or for you to receive in-network benefits. Our staff at the clinic 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 our clinic if you encounter issues or haven't heard back within a reasonable timeframe as advised by Dr. Jessica Briggs.

9421 Marketplace Dr
Norwalk IA 50211
Phone: (515) 974-0800

Dr. Jessica Briggs, DO is regulated by the Iowa Code, Chapter 148 (Medicine) in Iowa and is licensed by The Iowa Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1497313902

Registration can typically be verified through The Iowa 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. Jessica Briggs 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.