Dr. L Kennington, MD – Family Physician | Chesterfield, MO

Please note: Dr. L Kennington is not currently accepting new patients. You may wish to check back periodically for updates or contact (314) 434-3333 to inquire about potential future openings or waitlists.

Dr. L Kennington, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Chesterfield, MO. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care, 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. He serves patients of all ages.

Dr. L Kennington, MD is a family medicine physician in Chesterfield, MO and has over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from University of Missouri School of Medicine in 1975. He is affiliated with Mercy Hospital St. Louis. He is registered with The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts and practices under the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 334 (Physicians and Surgeons, etc.). With over 45 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients. His approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. L Kennington provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. L Kennington remains committed to advancing the health and well-being of his patients and the community he serves, continuously striving to provide the best possible medical care and support.

Dr. L Kennington addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Menstrual Disorders: These encompass a variety of conditions affecting the menstrual cycle, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing underlying causes.
• Wheezing: This often indicates airway narrowing, and evaluation helps determine the cause (allergies, asthma, etc.) and appropriate management.
• Canker Sore: These painful mouth ulcers often resolve on their own, but treatment can alleviate discomfort.
• Dehydration: This fluid imbalance requires replenishment, and treatment depends on the severity and cause.
• Dry Skin: This can stem from various factors, and treatment involves addressing the underlying cause and using appropriate moisturizers.
• Swine Flu: This viral infection necessitates supportive care and may require antiviral medication in severe cases.
• Polyneuropathy: This involves damage to multiple peripheral nerves, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause.
• Mycobacterial Lung Infection: This serious infection requires prompt diagnosis and treatment with appropriate antibiotics.
• Anemia: This condition of low red blood cell count requires identification of the cause and treatment to restore levels.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: This inflammation of the conjunctiva due to allergens is treated with antihistamines and other measures.
• Achilles Tendinitis: This inflammation of the Achilles tendon often responds to rest, ice, and physical therapy.
• Gas-Bloat Syndrome: This condition causes discomfort and bloating, and management strategies focus on lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments.
• Nasopharyngitis: This common viral infection causes inflammation of the nose and throat, usually resolving on its own.
• Noninfectious Gastroenteritis and Colitis: These conditions cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, with treatment focusing on managing symptoms.

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

• ACTH (Cosyntropin) Stimulation Test: This test assesses the function of the adrenal glands.
• Dyslexia Assessment: This evaluation helps identify and assess reading difficulties.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: This screening helps determine an individual's risk for developing breast cancer.
• Joint Fluid Test: This test analyzes fluid from a joint to diagnose conditions like arthritis.
• Blood Allergy Testing: This test identifies specific allergens causing allergic reactions.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: This imaging technique assesses the structure and function of the heart.
• Wellness Examination: This comprehensive exam focuses on preventative care and overall health.
• Prostate Cancer Screening Exam (DRE): This exam helps detect abnormalities in the prostate gland.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This evaluation helps assess mental health and diagnose psychiatric disorders.
• Immunization Administration: This service provides vaccines to protect against various diseases.
• Pregnancy Test: This test determines if an individual is pregnant.
• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: This screening detects low red blood cell counts and iron deficiency.
• Hepatitis C Virus Screening: This screening detects the presence of the Hepatitis C virus.
• Dementia Evaluation: This evaluation assesses cognitive function and helps diagnose dementia.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. L Kennington. 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 Missouri and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

Dr. L Kennington 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. L Kennington can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With proper treatment, patients find relief from the pain and inflammation of Achilles tendinitis, enabling them to return to activities they enjoy, such as running or hiking, without limitations. They experience improved mobility and a better quality of life.
• With proper treatment and rest, patients experiencing nasopharyngitis typically find their symptoms significantly reduced within a week. This allows them to return to their normal activities and routines feeling refreshed and healthy.
• With proper management, patients often regain their energy and vitality, allowing them to fully participate in their favorite activities and enjoy a higher quality of life. They feel stronger and more capable of handling daily tasks.
• With diligent adherence to the prescribed treatment plan, patients successfully combat mycobacterial lung infection, regaining their respiratory health and enjoying a renewed sense of vitality and freedom to pursue their passions. They are able to return to their normal activities and experience improved quality of life.

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

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card High Performance Network, Type: HPN
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna HMO
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: LocalPlus
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), 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. L Kennington 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. L Kennington) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (314) 434-3333 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. L Kennington may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Mercy Hospital St. Louis (Saint Louis, MO)

He earned his medical degree from University of Missouri School of Medicine in 1975. He completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at Mercy Hospital St Louis (graduated 1976).

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. L Kennington:

Are services from Dr. L Kennington typically covered by health insurance in Missouri?

Dr. L Kennington, as a Family Physician in Missouri, 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 (314) 434-3333 prior to scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. L Kennington is 'in-network' for your plan and to understand your specific coverage details, including 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. L Kennington as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. L Kennington 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. L Kennington 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. L Kennington, 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 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 [(314) 434-3333] 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 happens if Dr. L Kennington determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr. L Kennington determines that your condition requires the expertise of a medical specialist (e.g., a cardiologist, dermatologist, surgeon, psychiatrist), he will discuss the reasons with you and initiate a referral. In the US healthcare system, this often involves Dr. L Kennington's office sending a formal referral request, including your relevant medical information and reason for consult, to the specialist's office. Depending on your insurance plan (especially HMOs), a formal referral from Dr. L Kennington may be required by your insurer for the specialist visit to be covered or for you to receive in-network benefits. Our staff at the clinic will work to find an in-network specialist for you where possible and may assist with any necessary prior authorization process from your insurance. Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly. The specialist's office will typically contact you directly to schedule an appointment once the referral (and any insurance authorization) is processed. Please follow up with our clinic if you encounter issues or haven't heard back within a reasonable timeframe as advised by Dr. L Kennington.

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

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

What does PCP mean and is Dr. L Kennington one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. L Kennington, 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.

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

As a Family Physician, Dr. L Kennington is specifically trained to manage patients with multiple health problems (multimorbidity) and complex care needs. He will take a holistic approach, considering how your various conditions interact and how treatments for one might affect another. Dr. L Kennington will help prioritize your health concerns, coordinate care with any specialists involved (ensuring referrals are appropriate, results are integrated, and treatment plans are aligned), manage your medications to avoid harmful interactions and polypharmacy (reviewing for necessity and effectiveness), and develop a comprehensive, patient-centered care plan that aligns with your overall health goals, values, and quality of life. Open communication about all your conditions, medications, and concerns is key to this process.

What does it mean for Dr. L Kennington to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. L Kennington (or the clinic he practices at) has a contract with your health insurance company. This contract typically includes agreed-upon (often discounted) rates for services. Seeing an in-network provider usually results in lower out-of-pocket costs for you, such as lower co-pays and co-insurance, once your deductible is met. 'Out-of-network' means there's no contract between the provider/clinic and your insurer. If you see an out-of-network provider, your insurance may cover a much smaller portion of the bill, or none at all, and you could be responsible for the difference between what the insurer pays and what the doctor charges (this is sometimes called 'balance billing'). It is always best to verify Dr. L Kennington's network status directly with your insurance plan by calling the member services number on your card or checking their online provider directory AND confirming with our clinic before your appointment.

14377 Woodlake Dr Ste 300
Chesterfield MO 63017
Phone: (314) 434-3333

Dr. L Kennington, MD is regulated by the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 334 (Physicians and Surgeons, etc.) in Missouri and is licensed by The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1215903406

Registration can typically be verified through The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts 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. L Kennington 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.