Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey, DO – Family Physician | Broomall, PA

Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey, DO is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Broomall, PA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine and practices under the Pennsylvania Statutes, Title 63, Chapter 15 (Medical Practice Act of 1985).

To confirm if Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey is currently accepting new patients, please contact (484) 565-1293.

Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey provides 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 committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey, DO is a family medicine physician in Broomall, PA. She is affiliated with Lankenau Medical Center.

Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey is committed to the ongoing health and well-being of her patients and the Broomall community, striving to provide accessible and compassionate care for all.

Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Acute Pharyngitis: This is an inflammation of the throat, often causing pain and discomfort.
• Pharyngitis: This refers to inflammation of the pharynx, the back of the throat, and can have various causes.
• Strep Throat: This is a bacterial infection of the throat caused by Streptococcus bacteria.
• Urinary Incontinence: This involves the involuntary leakage of urine.
• Cellulitis: This is a bacterial skin infection that causes redness, swelling, and pain.
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): These are infections transmitted through sexual contact.
• Acute Bronchitis: This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, usually caused by a viral infection.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract.
• Shortness of Breath: This can be a symptom of various underlying medical conditions.
• Sebaceous Cysts: These are benign cysts that develop in the sebaceous glands.
• Nausea: This is a feeling of sickness and the urge to vomit.
• Acute Lower Respiratory Infection: This is an infection of the lower respiratory tract, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
• Tonsillitis: This is an inflammation of the tonsils.
• Fever: This is an elevated body temperature, often a sign of infection.

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

• Mole Evaluation: Assessment of moles to detect potential skin cancer.
• Melanoma Screening: Examination for melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
• VAP Lipid Testing: Testing to measure cholesterol and other lipids in the blood.
• Independent Educational Evaluation: Assessment of a child's educational needs.
• Hepatitis A Screening: Testing for the hepatitis A virus.
• Dementia Evaluation: Assessment for cognitive impairment and dementia.
• Cancer Screening: Preventative screenings for various types of cancer.
• Cholesterol Screening: Testing for high cholesterol.
• Psychological Evaluation: Assessment of mental health concerns.
• Lyme Disease Evaluation: Assessment for Lyme disease infection.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: Testing for the hepatitis C virus.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: Management of symptoms related to menopause.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: Imaging of the heart using ultrasound.
• Urine Pregnancy Test: A test to detect pregnancy.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey. 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients experiencing shortness of breath often find relief through personalized treatment plans, allowing them to return to activities they enjoy, such as gardening or spending time with loved ones. Improved breathing enables increased energy levels and a greater sense of well-being.
• Patients rediscover confidence and freedom from the limitations of urinary incontinence, enjoying worry-free social activities and pursuing their passions without the constant worry of accidents. They experience a renewed sense of normalcy and improved quality of life.
• With appropriate treatment, patients quickly find relief from the painful throat associated with acute pharyngitis, allowing them to return to their normal routines and enjoy comfortable eating and sleeping again.

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

• Amerihealth
  • Plan: Regional Preferred POS Plus
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• MVP Health Care
  • Plan: MVP Health Plan, Type: EPO

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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (484) 565-1293 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Lankenau Medical Center (Wynnewood, PA)

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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey:

Are services from Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey typically covered by health insurance in Pennsylvania?

Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey, 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 (484) 565-1293 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey, 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey?

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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey 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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey, 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 exactly is a Family Physician (Family Physician) and what is their role in the US healthcare system?

A Family Physician (Family Physician) in the US is a physician who has completed residency training and is typically board-certified in Family Medicine (e.g., by the American Board of Family Medicine - ABFM). She are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the US healthcare system, including coordinating with your insurance plan for necessary care.

How long do appointments with Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey typically last?

Appointment times with Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey will vary based on the purpose of the visit. For a quick follow-up on a stable issue or a very straightforward problem, 15 minutes might suffice. For annual physicals/wellness visits, new patient consultations, or if you have several health concerns to discuss, Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey will usually book a longer slot, such as 30-45 minutes, or occasionally more. Always try to be specific about your needs when scheduling your appointment at the clinic so the team can ensure enough time is set aside with Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey to address your concerns thoroughly and effectively.

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 [(484) 565-1293] 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.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey?

Your first appointment with Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey is an important opportunity to establish care. She will likely review your detailed medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, hospitalizations, allergies, immunizations, and family health history. she will also want to discuss your current health concerns, any medications you are taking (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, supplements - bring the bottles or an accurate list), and your lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol/substance use). A basic physical examination may be performed. This visit is also a chance for you to ask questions about Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey's practice style and for her to explain clinic policies (e.g., appointment scheduling, prescription refills, communication methods, insurance billing procedures, missed appointment fees). You will likely need to provide your insurance card(s), a photo ID, and complete new patient paperwork. The main goal is to gather comprehensive baseline information for optimal ongoing care and to begin building a strong physician-patient relationship.

Can Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Absolutely. Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey is well-equipped to address a wide range of mental health issues as part of comprehensive family medicine. She can help diagnose conditions like anxiety or depression, provide counseling and support, manage psychotropic medications when appropriate (monitoring for effectiveness and side effects), and coordinate care with mental health specialists if required, ensuring your overall care plan is holistic. If you're struggling with your mental well-being, Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey is an excellent person to start the conversation with and seek help from in a confidential and supportive environment.

1991 Sproul Rd
Broomall PA 19008
Phone: (484) 565-1293

Dr. Kristine Ruch-Harvey, DO 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): 1295149367

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. Kristine Ruch-Harvey 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.