Dr. Joseph Chow, MD – Family Physician | Buffalo, NY

Dr. Joseph Chow, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Buffalo, NY. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. To confirm if Dr. Joseph Chow is currently accepting new patients, please contact (716) 675-3700.

Dr. Joseph Chow, MD is a family medicine physician in Buffalo, NY and has over 20 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from HOLY FAMILY COLLEGE in 2000. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Blount Memorial Hospital and Catholic Health-St. Joseph Campus. 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.

With over 20 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 fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Joseph Chow provides consultations primarily in English. He is registered with The New York State Board for Medicine (NYSBOM) and practices under the New York Education Law, Article 131 (Medicine). Dr. Joseph Chow is committed to the ongoing health and well-being of his patients and the community he serves.

Dr. Joseph Chow addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Foot Infection: This involves an infection affecting the foot, often requiring prompt medical attention.
• Pharyngitis: This is an inflammation of the pharynx, commonly known as a sore throat.
• Diarrhea: This is characterized by loose, watery stools and can be caused by various factors.
• Limb Pain: This encompasses pain in the arms or legs, which can stem from various underlying conditions.
• Shortness of Breath: This symptom can indicate several health issues and warrants prompt medical evaluation.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is an infection affecting the urinary system, usually requiring antibiotic treatment.
• Joint Pain: This can arise from various sources, including arthritis, injury, or overuse.
• Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: This is a common infection affecting the upper respiratory tract, often causing cold or flu-like symptoms.
• Throat Pain: This can be a symptom of various conditions, ranging from simple irritation to more serious infections.

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

• Tuberculosis Screening: This involves testing for the presence of tuberculosis bacteria.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: This includes assessment and management of symptoms associated with menopause.
• Diabetes Screening: This helps detect the presence of diabetes mellitus through various tests.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: This uses ultrasound technology to visualize the heart's structure and function.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): This measures the electrical activity of the heart to detect abnormalities.
• Syphilis Screening: This involves testing for the presence of syphilis infection.
• Vaccination: This provides protection against various infectious diseases.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: This assesses the heart's response to physical exertion.
• Vaginosis Screening: This helps detect bacterial vaginosis.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This evaluates lipid levels in the blood, providing insights into cardiovascular risk.
• Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: This assists individuals in assessing and addressing substance misuse issues.
• Herpes Simplex Screening: This tests for the presence of herpes simplex virus.
• Worker's Compensation Evaluations: These evaluations assess work-related injuries and their impact.
• Joint Fluid Test: This involves analyzing fluid from a joint to diagnose conditions affecting the joint.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Joseph Chow. 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 New York and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The New York State Board for Medicine (NYSBOM).

Dr. Joseph Chow 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. Joseph Chow can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With the right care and treatment, patients experiencing diarrhea find relief from their symptoms and are able to return to their normal routines, free from discomfort and worry. They regain their energy and can fully participate in daily activities once more.
• With effective pain management strategies, patients often experience significant relief from joint pain, enabling them to return to favorite activities like gardening or playing with grandchildren. This improved mobility and reduced discomfort contributes to a greater sense of well-being and improved quality of life.
• With proper management, patients experiencing shortness of breath often find their breathing easier and are able to return to activities they enjoy, such as spending time with loved ones or pursuing hobbies. This improved breathing significantly enhances their quality of life.

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

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
  • Plan: Blue Advantage, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Blue Choice
  • Plan: Blue Essentials, Type: HMO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Excellus BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: BluePPO HSA, Type: PPO
  • Plan: SimplyBlue/Simply Blue Plus, Type: PPO
• Fidelis Care

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. Joseph Chow 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. Joseph Chow) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (716) 675-3700 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. Joseph Chow may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Blount Memorial Hospital (Maryville, TN)
• Catholic Health-St. Joseph Campus (Cheektowaga, NY)
• Kenmore Mercy Hospital (Kenmore, NY)
• Mercy Hospital of Buffalo (Buffalo, NY)
• Rochester General Hospital (Rochester, NY)

He earned his medical degree from HOLY FAMILY COLLEGE in 2000.

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. Joseph Chow:

Are services from Dr. Joseph Chow typically covered by health insurance in New York?

Dr. Joseph Chow, as a Family Physician in New York, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, patients must always verify with their specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Joseph Chow 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. Joseph Chow as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, individuals do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Joseph Chow to establish care as their Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided he is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Joseph Chow 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. Joseph Chow, 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?

Your Family Physician (Family Physician) is your primary healthcare provider in the US, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues. He manage acute illnesses, oversee care for long-term chronic diseases, provide routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling (often part of annual wellness visits or Medicare Annual Wellness Visits for seniors), administer vaccinations, and ensure you get access to specialized medical services through referrals, often navigating insurance requirements. The continuity of care he provide, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine and can lead to better health outcomes.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Joseph Chow?

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. Joseph Chow's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Joseph Chow 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. Joseph Chow, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Joseph Chow, 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 should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Joseph Chow?

For every appointment with Dr. Joseph Chow, please bring your current health insurance card(s) and a valid photo ID (like a driver's license). It is also very helpful to bring an up-to-date list of all your current medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, along with their dosages and why you take them. If you have them, any relevant medical records, recent test results (blood work, imaging reports from other facilities), or letters from other doctors can be useful, especially if you are seeing Dr. Joseph Chow for the first time or for a specific complex problem. Having a written list of your questions or concerns can also help ensure you cover everything you need to during your visit. Be prepared to pay any co-payment or deductible amount as required by your insurance plan at the time of service.

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

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

What does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Joseph Chow in the US?

Preventative care provided by Dr. Joseph Chow aims to stop health issues from occurring or to catch them at an early, more manageable stage, following established US guidelines. This includes regular physical exams or wellness visits (many insurance plans cover one per year), vaccinations, screenings for common conditions like certain cancers or heart disease risk factors (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes), and personalized advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking. It’s about being proactive with your health, and Dr. Joseph Chow can help guide you in these efforts.

Does Dr. Joseph Chow at your clinic offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Joseph Chow at our clinic may offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate, permitted by state regulations, and covered by your insurance plan. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, certain prescription renewals (not typically for new controlled substances), or some mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions, new significant problems, or situations requiring a physical examination (like listening to your heart/lungs or examining a rash) will still necessitate an in-person visit for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Joseph Chow if a telehealth appointment might be suitable for your specific needs. Insurance coverage, co-pays, and deductibles for telehealth visits can vary significantly by plan and insurer; please verify with your insurance provider and our clinic regarding your specific plan's coverage for telehealth services with Dr. Joseph Chow before scheduling such an appointment.

3050 Orchard Park Rd
Buffalo NY 14224
Phone: (716) 675-3700

Dr. Joseph Chow, MD is regulated by the New York Education Law, Article 131 (Medicine) in New York and is licensed by The New York State Board for Medicine (NYSBOM).

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1235125550

Registration can typically be verified through The New York State Board for Medicine (NYSBOM) 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. Joseph Chow 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.