Dr. Jessica Fournier, MD – Family Physician | Lowell, MA

Dr. Jessica Fournier, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Lowell, MA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. To confirm if Dr. Jessica Fournier is currently accepting new patients, please contact (978) 937-9700.

Dr. Fournier's 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. She serves patients of all ages and is registered with The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, practicing under the Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112 (Registration of Certain Professions and Occupations).

Dr. Jessica Fournier, MD is a family medicine physician in Lowell, MA, affiliated with Reading Hospital. She is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships to ensure the best possible health outcomes. Dr. Jessica Fournier provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Fournier looks forward to partnering with her patients to improve their health and overall wellbeing within the Lowell community.

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

• Cutaneous Desmoplastic Melanoma: It's a specific kind of skin cancer that develops in the skin and may not have the usual dark appearance of other melanomas.
• Kaposi's Sarcoma: Kaposi's sarcoma is a type of cancer that causes patches of abnormal tissue to grow on the skin, in the mouth, or in other parts of the body.
• Hypertrophic Lichen Planus: It's a chronic skin condition characterized by inflamed, hardened skin plaques, often requiring ongoing management.
• Viral Exanthem: Viral exanthem refers to a skin rash that's a symptom of a viral infection.
• Malignant Acanthosis Nigricans: Malignant acanthosis nigricans is a rare skin problem that often appears with certain types of cancer.
• Secondary Focal Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating in a specific area of the body that's not caused by a primary condition.
• Limb Pain: This can stem from various causes and requires a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying issue and appropriate treatment.

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

• ACTH (Cosyntropin) Stimulation Test: This test helps evaluate the function of the adrenal glands.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: Comprehensive assessment and treatment plans to address various sleep issues.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: Personalized management of symptoms associated with menopause.
• Dyslexia Assessment: Evaluation for dyslexia and recommendations for support.
• Memory Evaluation: Assessment of memory function and potential cognitive concerns.
• Urine Pregnancy Test: A simple test to detect pregnancy.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: Testing for chlamydia infection.
• Hepatitis Screening: Screening for hepatitis viruses.
• Strep Test: Testing for streptococcal infection.
• Gonorrhea Screening: Testing for gonorrhea infection.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: Assessment of cardiovascular health under stress.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: Evaluation of mental health concerns.
• Osteoporosis Screening: Screening for osteoporosis.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: Screening for Hepatitis C virus infection.

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

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

• With effective management strategies, patients experiencing limb pain often find significant relief, allowing them to return to enjoying their favorite activities and pursuing their passions without the limitations of persistent discomfort. This improved mobility and reduced pain enhances their overall quality of life.
• Patients experiencing secondary focal hyperhidrosis found relief through effective treatment, allowing them to regain confidence and participate fully in social activities and work without the constant worry of excessive sweating. This improved their quality of life and overall well-being.
• With appropriate treatment, children with viral exanthem typically see their rash fade and discomfort subside, allowing them to return to playing and other normal childhood activities. Parents often report a quick return to their child's usual happy and energetic self.

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

• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts
  • Plan: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Preferred Blue v5, Type: PPO
• Tufts Health Plan
  • Plan: Tufts, 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 Fournier 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 Fournier) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (978) 937-9700 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 Fournier may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Reading Hospital (Reading, PA)

She earned her medical degree from UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS / WORCESTER CAMPUS.

She is Board Certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, and Board Certified in Family Practice by the American Board of Family Medicine.

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

Are services from Dr. Jessica Fournier typically covered by health insurance in Massachusetts?

Dr. Jessica Fournier, as a Family Physician in Massachusetts, 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 patients verify with their specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Jessica Fournier is 'in-network' for their plan and to understand their 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. Jessica Fournier as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Jessica Fournier 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 Fournier 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 Fournier, 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 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 [(978) 937-9700] 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.

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

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

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of what Dr. Jessica Fournier does as your PCP. She will work with you to understand the full picture of your health, help manage various chronic diseases simultaneously, ensure your medications are optimized and appropriate, and coordinate with different specialists to ensure your care is not fragmented and that everyone on your healthcare team is informed. The goal is to provide integrated and patient-centered care that addresses all your needs effectively within the context of your insurance and overall healthcare access.

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

'In-network' means Dr. Jessica Fournier (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 Fournier'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 is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Jessica Fournier?

Having continuity of care with Dr. Jessica Fournier means that she is your consistent point of contact for your health needs over many years, serving as your 'medical home'. This long-term relationship allows Dr. Jessica Fournier to understand the nuances of your health, track changes over time, and provide care that is personalized and proactive. It improves communication, reduces duplication of tests and potential for conflicting medical advice, helps in managing chronic conditions more effectively, and fosters a stronger physician-patient partnership, all leading to better overall health management within the US healthcare system.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Jessica Fournier?

Always bring your insurance card(s) and a form of photo ID to your appointment with Dr. Jessica Fournier. A complete list of all medications you're currently taking (prescription, non-prescription, natural health products), including dosages, is crucial for Dr. Jessica Fournier to review for safety and interactions. For new patients, any past medical records or a health summary you can provide are beneficial. If you monitor things at home (like blood pressure or blood sugar), bringing your logbook and device can be helpful. Preparing a list of your symptoms or questions in advance can also make your appointment more productive. Also, be aware of your insurance co-pay or deductible responsibilities.

161 Jackson St
Lowell MA 01852
Phone: (978) 937-9700

Dr. Jessica Fournier, MD is regulated by the Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 112 (Registration of Certain Professions and Occupations) in Massachusetts and is licensed by The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1437719135

Registration can typically be verified through The Massachusetts Board of Registration in 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 Fournier 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.