Dr. Joseph Stella, MD – Family Physician | Scranton, PA

Dr. Joseph Stella, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Scranton, PA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine and practices under the Pennsylvania Statutes, Title 63, Chapter 15 (Medical Practice Act of 1985).

Dr. Joseph Stella is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (570) 342-8500 to inquire or schedule an appointment. 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.

Dr. Joseph Stella, MD is a family medicine physician in Scranton, PA and has over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Temple University in 1978. He is affiliated with medical facilities Geisinger Community Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. 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 provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Joseph Stella is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering strong, collaborative physician-patient relationships, ensuring his patients receive the best possible care and support throughout their healthcare journey.

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

• Dysphagia: This condition involves difficulty swallowing, and treatment focuses on identifying the underlying cause and managing symptoms.
• Gas-Bloat Syndrome: This refers to discomfort caused by excess gas in the digestive tract, often managed through dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments.
• Overweight: Managing overweight involves a comprehensive approach encompassing lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and potentially medication.
• Serous Conjunctivitis: This is a common eye inflammation often treated with lubricating eye drops and other symptom relief measures.
• Sinus Tachycardia: This involves a rapid heart rate, and treatment focuses on identifying and addressing any underlying causes.
• Dermatitis Due to Substances Taken Internally: This skin condition is linked to internal substances and requires identifying and eliminating the cause.
• Strep Throat: This bacterial infection typically responds well to antibiotic treatment.
• Animal Allergies: Management often involves allergen avoidance, medication, and sometimes immunotherapy.
• Pharyngitis: This inflammation of the throat can have various causes and requires appropriate diagnosis and management.
• Menstrual Disorders: These conditions can be addressed through various treatments depending on the specific disorder and its cause.
• Nasopharyngitis: This common upper respiratory infection often resolves on its own with supportive care.
• Bruise of Face: Treatment usually focuses on monitoring for complications and promoting healing.
• Heart Disease: Comprehensive management involves lifestyle changes, medication, and potentially procedures.
• Ear Ache: This symptom can stem from various causes, requiring appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

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

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: This test helps assess how well your body processes sugar.
• Arrhythmia Screening: This screening helps detect irregular heartbeats.
• Chlamydia Infection Screening: This screening helps detect the presence of chlamydia bacteria.
• Hepatitis Screening: This screening helps detect the presence of hepatitis viruses.
• Tuberculosis Screening: This screening helps detect the presence of tuberculosis bacteria.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: This screening helps detect low red blood cell counts and iron deficiency.
• Prostate Cancer Screening Exam (DRE): This exam helps detect prostate abnormalities.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: This screening assesses spinal alignment and posture.
• Syphilis Screening: This screening helps detect the presence of syphilis bacteria.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: This service helps manage symptoms related to menopause.
• Abscess or Cyst Drainage or Aspiration: This procedure removes fluid from an abscess or cyst.
• Detoxification Evaluation: This evaluation assesses the need for detoxification treatment.
• STD Screening: This screening helps detect various sexually transmitted diseases.
• Wheelchair Evaluation: This evaluation assesses the need for a wheelchair and appropriate type.

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

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

• With prompt treatment, patients quickly recover from strep throat, experiencing a significant reduction in pain and discomfort. They are then able to return to their normal activities, feeling much better and free from the debilitating symptoms.
• With personalized guidance and a tailored plan, patients experiencing gas-bloat syndrome find significant relief from discomfort, allowing them to enjoy social events and meals without worry. They are able to resume normal activities and feel more confident in their daily lives.
• With proper treatment, patients experience relief from the discomfort of serous conjunctivitis, allowing them to return to their normal activities without blurry vision or eye irritation. They can once again enjoy everyday tasks and social interactions without the constant worry of eye discomfort.

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

• Aetna
  • Plan: APCN Open Access Aetna Select
  • 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 APCN Choice (OAMC), Type: POS II
  • Plan: Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
  • Plan: Select
• Amerihealth
  • Plan: Personal Choice, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Capital Blue Cross
  • Plan: Capital Blue Cross PPO
  • Plan: Keystone Health Plan Central, Type: HMO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: BluePreferred, Type: PPO
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Connecticare
  • Plan: Flex Connecticut, Type: EPO
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Geisinger Health Plan
  • Plan: Geisinger Choice with no Referral, Type: PPO
• Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BCBS, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Community Blue, Type: PPO
  • Plan: PPOBlue, Type: PPO
  • Plan: myBlue Access, Type: EPO
• MVP Health Care
  • Plan: MVP Health Plan, Type: EPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: MD IPA/Optimum Choice HMO/Preferred POS HMO, Type: HMO-POS
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: POS
  • Plan: Nexus Open Access
  • Plan: Options, 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. Joseph Stella 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 Stella) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (570) 342-8500 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 Stella may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes Barre, PA)
• Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA)

He earned his medical degree from Temple University in 1978.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Joseph Stella:

Are services from Dr. Joseph Stella typically covered by health insurance in Pennsylvania?

Dr. Joseph Stella, as a Family Physician in Pennsylvania, 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 at (570) 342-8500 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Joseph Stella 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. Joseph Stella as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Joseph Stella 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. Joseph Stella 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 Stella, 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 does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Joseph Stella in the US?

With Dr. Joseph Stella, preventative care means taking proactive steps to maintain your health and prevent future illness. This encompasses services like scheduled immunizations (flu, pneumonia, shingles, etc.), screenings for diseases you might be at risk for (based on USPSTF recommendations for your age, family history, etc.), discussions about lifestyle modifications to reduce risks (e.g., related to nutrition, physical activity, substance use), and regular health assessments to monitor your overall status. Dr. Joseph Stella works with you to create a personalized prevention plan, many components of which may be covered by your health insurance without cost-sharing.

Can Dr. Joseph Stella help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. Joseph Stella plays a crucial role in mental and behavioral healthcare. He is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress-related issues, sleep problems, or concerns about substance use. Dr. Joseph Stella can provide an initial assessment (often using screening tools), offer supportive counseling and lifestyle strategies, prescribe medication if appropriate and indicated (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications), and make referrals to specialized mental health services such as psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists (LCSW, LPC, MFT), or community mental health programs if more intensive or specialized care (like specific types of psychotherapy) is needed. Dr. Joseph Stella can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

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

Yes, Dr. Joseph Stella 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 Stella 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 Stella before scheduling such an 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 [(570) 342-8500] 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. Joseph Stella recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

What happens if Dr. Joseph Stella determines I need to see a medical specialist?

As your Family Physician/PCP, Dr. Joseph Stella acts as your primary care coordinator. If he believes your condition requires specialized assessment or treatment, he will explain why a specialist consultation is necessary and will arrange the referral. This process will consider your insurance plan's requirements for specialist referrals and in-network providers. Dr. Joseph Stella will send your pertinent medical details to the specialist. It's important to keep our clinic informed of any specialist appointments you attend and any new diagnoses or treatments recommended by the specialist so Dr. Joseph Stella can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively and maintain a complete medical record.

531 Mt Pleasant Dr
Scranton PA 18503
Phone: (570) 342-8500

Dr. Joseph Stella, MD is regulated by the Pennsylvania Statutes, Title 63, Chapter 15 (Medical Practice Act of 1985) in Pennsylvania and is licensed by The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1316995780

Registration can typically be verified through The Pennsylvania State 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. Joseph Stella 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.