Dr. Laura Ling, MD – Family Physician | Madison, TN

Dr. Laura Ling, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Madison, TN. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. To confirm if Dr. Laura Ling is currently accepting new patients, please contact (615) 988-4055.

Dr. Laura Ling 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 registered with The Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners and practices under the Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63, Chapter 6 (Medicine and Surgery).

Dr. Laura Ling, MD is a family medicine physician in Madison, TN. She is affiliated with medical facilities TriStar Skyline Medical Center and MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center. She is accepting telehealth appointments. Her approach to care emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Laura Ling provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Laura Ling is committed to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.

Dr. Laura Ling addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Muscle Cramping: This involves involuntary muscle contractions causing pain and discomfort, often addressed through identifying underlying causes and implementing treatments to alleviate symptoms.
• Acute Lower Respiratory Infection: These infections affect the lungs and airways, typically managed through symptom relief and supportive care, sometimes requiring antibiotics.
• Cachexia: This involves severe weight loss and muscle wasting, often associated with chronic illness, and managed by addressing the underlying condition and improving nutrition.
• Constipation: This is characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements, usually managed with lifestyle changes and sometimes medication.
• Thrush: This is a yeast infection of the mouth or throat, usually treatable with antifungal medications.
• Nail Infection: These infections can affect the nail bed or surrounding tissue, often requiring topical or oral antifungal treatment.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A bacterial infection of the urinary tract, typically managed with antibiotics.
• All Headaches (incl. Migraine): These range from tension headaches to migraines, managed through various approaches depending on the type and severity.
• Limb Pain: Pain in the arms or legs, often addressed by determining the underlying cause and implementing appropriate treatments.
• Shortness of Breath: This symptom requires evaluation to identify the underlying cause, ranging from simple respiratory infections to more serious cardiac or pulmonary conditions.
• Mild Asthma: This respiratory condition is managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments to control symptoms.
• Onychogryphosis: This involves thickening and overgrowth of the toenails, often managed with trimming and sometimes surgical intervention.
• Amenorrhea: The absence of menstruation, requiring investigation to determine the cause.
• Vitamin B Deficiency: A deficiency in one or more B vitamins, managed through dietary changes or supplementation.

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

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test measures the electrical activity of the heart to detect abnormalities in heart rhythm and function.
• Advance Directive End of Life Planning: This helps patients plan for their future healthcare wishes and end-of-life care.
• Pregnancy Ultrasound: This imaging technique uses sound waves to create images of the developing fetus during pregnancy.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
• Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: This involves coordinating care with specialists and other healthcare providers to ensure patients receive comprehensive care.
• Abscess or Fluid Incision and Drainage: This procedure involves draining pus or fluid from an abscess or other collection of fluid.
• Immunization Administration: This involves administering vaccines to protect against various infectious diseases.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Laura Ling. 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 Tennessee and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners.

Dr. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients find relief from the pain and discomfort of onychogryphosis, allowing them to comfortably wear shoes and participate in activities they enjoy once again. Their improved mobility and reduced foot pain enhances their overall quality of life.
• With proper management, patients find their asthma symptoms significantly reduced, allowing them to participate more fully in activities they enjoy, such as playing sports or spending time outdoors. Breathing easily and freely transforms their daily lives.
• With prompt treatment, patients quickly find relief from the painful symptoms of a UTI, allowing them to return to their normal activities feeling comfortable and healthy. Many are able to resume work, social events, and other daily routines without discomfort.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Laura Ling, 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 Madison, Tennessee area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Madison and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Madison. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Convenient patient parking is typically available nearby or on-site.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Laura Ling. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Laura Ling 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: Select
  • Plan: Small Group Maryland Elect Choice Open Access
  • Plan: Small Group Maryland, Type: HMO
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: HMO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: BlueChoice Advantage, Type: POS
  • Plan: BluePreferred, Type: PPO
  • Plan: HealthBlue, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Maryland, Type: POS
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• 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: Medica Choice
  • 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. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (615) 988-4055 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. Laura Ling may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• TriStar Skyline Medical Center (Nashville, TN)
• MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center (Baltimore, MD)

She earned her medical degree from University of Hawaii at Manoa John A. Burns School of Medicine.

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. Laura Ling:

Are services from Dr. Laura Ling typically covered by health insurance in Tennessee?

As a Family Physician in Tennessee, Dr. Laura Ling 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 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling, 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. Laura Ling in the US?

Preventative care with Dr. Laura Ling focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious, often guided by recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), CDC, and other national bodies like the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (annual physicals or wellness visits, often covered by insurance without co-pay), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests/HPV, mammograms, colon cancer screening, lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals), immunizations (flu shots, shingles, pneumococcal, Tdap), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes and obesity, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early, and promote long-term health.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Laura Ling?

Always bring your insurance card(s) and a form of photo ID to your appointment with Dr. Laura Ling. A complete list of all medications you're currently taking (prescription, non-prescription, natural health products), including dosages, is crucial for Dr. Laura Ling to review for safety and interactions. For new patients, any past medical records or a health summary you can provide are beneficial. If you monitor things at home (like blood pressure or blood sugar), bringing your logbook and device can be helpful. Preparing a list of your symptoms or questions in advance can also make your appointment more productive. Also, be aware of your insurance co-pay or deductible responsibilities.

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

Yes, Dr. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling before scheduling such an appointment.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Laura Ling?

Your first appointment with Dr. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling'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.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Laura Ling?

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. Laura Ling's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Laura Ling 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. Laura Ling, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Laura Ling, 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.

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

As a Family Physician, Dr. Laura Ling is specifically trained to manage patients with multiple health problems (multimorbidity) and complex care needs. She will take a holistic approach, considering how your various conditions interact and how treatments for one might affect another. Dr. Laura Ling 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.

2009 Gallatin Pike N
Madison TN 37115
Phone: (615) 988-4055

Dr. Laura Ling, MD is regulated by the Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63, Chapter 6 (Medicine and Surgery) in Tennessee and is licensed by The Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1598225492

Registration can typically be verified through The Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners 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. Laura Ling 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.