Dr. John Lentz, MD – Family Physician | Destin, FL

Dr. John Lentz, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Destin, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. John Lentz is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (850) 424-6841 to inquire or schedule an appointment.

Dr. John Lentz is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). His 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.

With over 45 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 graduated from Medical University of South Carolina in 1975. He is affiliated with Healthmark Regional Medical Center. Patients present with complicated multi-system complaints and need a broad approach to define the issues and the treatment plans to resolve these symptoms. The patient is an integral part of the decision making, which ensures compliance and future benefits in treatment. Treatment involves patients to change their environments and to be aware of risk factors that effect their outcomes in treatment. Dr. John Lentz provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. John Lentz is committed to providing accessible and high-quality care to the Destin community and looks forward to welcoming new patients to his practice.

Dr. John Lentz addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Back Pain: This condition is characterized by pain in the back, which can have various causes and treatments.
• Liver Damage from Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause significant harm to the liver, requiring careful management and lifestyle changes.
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): COPD is a progressive lung disease that makes breathing difficult and requires ongoing medical management.
• Magnesium Metabolism Disorders: These disorders involve imbalances in the body's magnesium levels, requiring medical intervention to restore balance.
• Urinary Stones: Urinary stones are hard deposits that form in the urinary tract and may cause severe pain and require treatment.
• Tobacco Use Disorder: This disorder involves nicotine addiction and requires comprehensive strategies for cessation.
• Anxiety: Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry and fear, often requiring therapy and/or medication.
• Arthritis: Arthritis encompasses various joint disorders causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs are infections of the urinary tract, often requiring antibiotic treatment.
• Low Back Pain: Low back pain is a common complaint, often managed with a combination of approaches.
• Chest Pain: Chest pain can have various causes, ranging from musculoskeletal issues to serious cardiac events, requiring careful evaluation.
• Chest Wall Pain Syndrome: This syndrome involves pain originating from the chest wall, typically requiring non-surgical management.
• Hypotension (Excluding Maternal): Low blood pressure (hypotension) can have various causes and requires medical assessment.
• Viral Infection: Viral infections, such as influenza, require supportive care and monitoring for complications.

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

• Skin Testing and Screening: This involves evaluating skin for abnormalities and conditions, such as skin cancer.
• Dipstick Urinalysis: This simple test provides quick information about the composition of urine.
• STD Screening: This screening detects sexually transmitted infections to enable prompt treatment.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: This helps manage symptoms associated with menopause and improve overall health.
• Psychiatric Evaluation - Child and Adolescent: This assessment helps children and adolescents with mental health challenges.
• Impairment Rating Evaluation: This assessment determines the extent of functional limitations due to injury or illness.
• Urine Pregnancy Test: This test detects pregnancy through urine analysis.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This evaluation helps address mental health concerns in adults.
• Blood Allergy Testing: This identifies allergens causing allergic reactions.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: This assesses genetic predisposition to breast cancer.
• Breast Cancer Screening: This involves detecting breast cancer early through mammograms or other methods.
• Joint Fluid Test: This analyzes fluid from joints to diagnose conditions affecting them.
• Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan: This scan measures bone density to assess osteoporosis risk.
• Home Sleep Study: This helps diagnose sleep disorders through at-home monitoring.

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

Dr. John Lentz 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. John Lentz can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients experiencing chest wall pain syndrome often find relief through targeted therapies, allowing them to return to activities they enjoy, such as exercising or spending time with loved ones without the constant worry of pain. This improved pain management significantly enhances their quality of life.
• With effective management strategies, patients find their anxiety significantly reduced, allowing them to return to work, pursue hobbies, and enjoy fulfilling personal relationships once again. They experience a renewed sense of calm and control over their lives.
• Patients experiencing chest pain found relief and improved cardiac health through effective treatment, allowing them to return to their active lifestyles with renewed confidence. They were able to resume activities they previously enjoyed without the fear of recurring pain.

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

Dr. John Lentz and the clinic may participate in various health insurance plans common in Florida. Please contact our office or your insurer for details.

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. John Lentz 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. John Lentz) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (850) 424-6841 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. John Lentz may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Healthmark Regional Medical Center (Defuniak Springs, FL)

He earned his medical degree from Medical University of South Carolina in 1975. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Anderson Fam Prac (graduated 1978), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. John Lentz:

Are services from Dr. John Lentz typically covered by health insurance in Florida?

As a Family Physician in Florida, Dr. John Lentz 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. John Lentz 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. John Lentz as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. John Lentz 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. John Lentz 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. John Lentz, 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.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. John Lentz?

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. John Lentz’s office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. John Lentz 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. John Lentz, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. John Lentz, 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.

How often should I see Dr. John Lentz for a check-up or physical exam?

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

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

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of what Dr. John Lentz does as your PCP. He 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 happens if Dr. John Lentz determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Seeing a medical specialist in the US often requires a referral from your Family Physician/PCP like Dr. John Lentz, particularly if mandated by your health insurance plan (e.g., HMOs or some POS plans) to ensure coverage at the highest benefit level. After assessing your condition, if Dr. John Lentz believes specialist care is necessary for diagnosis or management, he will discuss this with you and make the appropriate referral, often suggesting specialists who are known to be in-network with common insurance plans. Our office may assist with the insurance pre-authorization process if required. You will then typically be contacted by the specialist’s office to arrange your appointment. Remember that specialist wait times can vary, so Dr. John Lentz will continue to manage your care and provide support in the interim.

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

Dr. John Lentz 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. John Lentz, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. John Lentz 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. John Lentz for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

What does PCP mean and is Dr. John Lentz one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. John Lentz, 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 manages a wide range of health concerns and coordinates 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.

737 Harbor Blvd Ste 1
Destin FL 32541
Phone: (850) 424-6841

Dr. John Lentz, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1356395693

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida 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. John Lentz 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.