Dr. Kris Walker, MD – Family Physician | Pocatello, ID

Dr. Kris Walker, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Pocatello, ID. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Walker is registered with The Idaho Board of Medicine and practices under the Idaho Statutes, Title 54, Chapter 18 (Physicians and Surgeons).

Dr. Kris Walker is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (208) 239-8065 to inquire or schedule an appointment. She 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 30 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. Dr. Walker provides preventative care for patients of all ages, women's health services, chronic illness management, and acute care services. She offers well-child and sports physicals and participates in the children's immunization program. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Physical Education from Idaho State University in Pocatello, Idaho, and her Medical Doctorate at the University of Nevada School of Medicine in Reno, Nevada. She completed her three-year Family Practice residency at the University of Utah McKay Dee Hospital in Ogden, Utah, and became board certified in Family Practice in 1997. Dr. Kris Walker provides consultations primarily in English. She is committed to helping her patients reach their personal health goals and focuses on their total well-being while helping them prevent health problems and manage chronic conditions. When she is not practicing medicine, her interests include spending time with family, cycling, backcountry skiing, and reading.

Dr. Kris Walker addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Acute Tonsillitis: This condition involves inflammation of the tonsils, often causing sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever.
• Shingles: Characterized by a painful rash with blisters, shingles is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
• Lipid Disorders: These disorders involve abnormal levels of fats (lipids) in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a "mini-stroke," a TIA involves temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, causing brief neurological symptoms.
• Diabetic Polyneuropathy: This complication of diabetes affects nerves, causing numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness, usually in the extremities.
• Limb Pain: Pain in the arms or legs can have various causes, requiring a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying issue.
• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, often causing heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain.
• Acute Laryngitis: This involves inflammation of the larynx (voice box), resulting in hoarseness or loss of voice.
• Strep Throat: A bacterial infection of the throat, strep throat causes sore throat, fever, and sometimes difficulty swallowing.
• Mineral Metabolism Disorders: These disorders affect the body's ability to process minerals, potentially leading to various symptoms depending on the specific disorder.
• Dizziness: Dizziness can be caused by various factors, including inner ear problems, neurological issues, or cardiovascular conditions.
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: Also known as menorrhagia, this involves unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
• Acute Pharyngitis: Inflammation of the pharynx (throat), often causing sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes fever.
• Herpes Zoster Without Complication: This is the medical term for shingles without any serious complications.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Kris Walker 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. Kris Walker 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, which produce important hormones.
• HIV Screening: This involves testing for the presence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Dyslexia Assessment: This assessment helps identify learning disabilities related to reading.
• Vaccination: Provides protection against various infectious diseases through vaccination.
• Breast Cancer Screening: Offers various screening methods to detect breast cancer early.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: Evaluates spinal alignment and posture to identify potential problems.
• Wheelchair Evaluation: Assesses individual needs and provides recommendations for wheelchair selection and use.
• Chest Pain Evaluation: Evaluates chest pain to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
• Nail Avulsion and Excision: Involves the removal of a nail, usually due to injury or infection.
• Skin Testing and Screening: Performs skin tests for allergies and screens for skin conditions.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: Screens for alcohol misuse and provides counseling as needed.
• Incision and Removal of Foreign Object: Removes foreign objects from the skin or other accessible areas.
• Worker's Compensation Evaluations: Provides evaluations for workers' compensation claims.
• Disability Evaluation: Assesses the extent of disability and its impact on daily life.

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

Dr. Kris Walker 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. Kris Walker can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With careful monitoring and personalized treatment plans, patients experiencing mineral metabolism disorders find their symptoms alleviated and their overall well-being improved, enabling them to lead more active and fulfilling lives. This often allows for a return to previously enjoyed activities and a greater sense of independence.
• 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, such as school or work, feeling much better.
• With appropriate rest and vocal rest, patients often find their hoarse voices gradually returning to normal. This allows them to comfortably resume work, social activities, and even singing or public speaking, if those were previously affected.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Kris Walker, 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 Pocatello, Idaho area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Pocatello and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Pocatello. 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. Kris Walker. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Kris Walker 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
• Altius Health Plans
• Anthem
  • Plan: National (BlueCard), Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross of Idaho
  • Plan: Blue Cross of Idaho PPO
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue 2.0
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Coventry Health Care
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Choice Health
  • Plan: First Choice Health PPO
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
• Medico
• MultiPlan
  • Plan: MultiPlan PPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • 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. Kris Walker 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. Kris Walker) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (208) 239-8065 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. Kris Walker may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Bingham Memorial Hospital (Blackfoot, ID)
• Portneuf Medical Center (Pocatello, ID)

She earned her medical degree from University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine in 1994. Following medical school, she undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Mc Kay Dee Hospital Center, honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

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. Kris Walker:

Are services from Dr. Kris Walker typically covered by health insurance in Idaho?

As a Family Physician in Idaho, Dr. Kris Walker likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, it is absolutely crucial that you verify with your specific insurance provider and our clinic's office prior to scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. Kris Walker is "in-network" for your plan and understand your coverage details, including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and any referral requirements for specialist visits. Some services (e.g., most cosmetic procedures, 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. Kris Walker as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Kris Walker 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. Kris Walker 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. Kris Walker, 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 your specific insurance plan's referral requirements.

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. She manages acute illnesses, oversees care for long-term chronic diseases, provides routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling (often part of annual wellness visits or Medicare Annual Wellness Visits for seniors), administers vaccinations, and ensures you get access to specialized medical services through referrals, often navigating insurance requirements. The continuity of care she provides, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine and can lead to better health outcomes.

What does PCP mean and is Dr. Kris Walker one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Kris Walker, as a Family Physician, serves as a PCP for her 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. She 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.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Kris Walker?

To each appointment with Dr. Kris Walker at the clinic, please ensure you have all your current health insurance cards and a photo ID. A current, detailed list of all your medications (name, dose, frequency, prescribing doctor if not Dr. Kris Walker) is very important. If you're coming about a specific issue and have related reports (like X-rays, specialist letters, or recent lab results from elsewhere), please bring those along. It's also a good idea to jot down any questions or symptoms you want to discuss with Dr. Kris Walker beforehand so you don't forget anything important. You may also want to check with the clinic beforehand about their payment policy for co-pays or services not covered by insurance.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Kris Walker?

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. Kris Walker's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Kris Walker 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. Kris Walker, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Kris Walker, 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 can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in Idaho who is accepting new patients and takes my insurance?

First, check your health insurance plan's "Find a Doctor" or "Provider Directory" tool (often available online or via their member services phone number) to find in-network PCPs. This is the most reliable way to ensure coverage. Also, use the "Physician Finder" tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The Idaho Medical Board website may have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups, as they often have affiliated family physicians who are accepting new patients and can provide lists of accepted insurances. It can be challenging, so be persistent. Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling the first 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 [(208) 239-8065] 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.

850 Yellowstone Ave Ste Bste
Pocatello ID 83201
Phone: (208) 239-8065

Dr. Kris Walker, MD is regulated by the Idaho Statutes, Title 54, Chapter 18 (Physicians and Surgeons) in Idaho and is licensed by The Idaho Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1861500613

Registration can typically be verified through The Idaho 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. Kris Walker 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.