Dr. Payal Gandhi, MD – Family Physician | Benton, AR

Dr. Payal Gandhi, MD is a Family Physician. To confirm if Dr. Payal Gandhi is currently accepting new patients, please contact (501) 574-7237. Practicing at her clinic in Benton, AR, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Arkansas State Medical Board and practices under the Arkansas Code, Title 17, Chapter 95 (Medical Practices Act).

Dr. Payal Gandhi, MD is a family medicine physician in Benton, AR, 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. She serves patients of all ages.

Dr. Payal Gandhi is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Payal Gandhi provides consultations primarily in English. She is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the Benton community.

Dr. Payal Gandhi addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Bubble Bath Allergy: I'm allergic to something in my bubble bath.
• All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Headaches and migraines can be effectively managed through diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans.
• Nummular Dermatitis: Nummular dermatitis is a skin condition causing coin-shaped, itchy patches.
• Eyelid Inflammation: My eyelids are swollen and irritated.
• Granuloma Inguinale: This infection needs treatment with antibiotics to avoid complications and spread.
• Hair Loss: I'm losing more hair than usual and would like to discuss this with my doctor.
• Joint Pain: Joint pain can stem from various causes and requires appropriate assessment and management strategies.

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

• Immunization Administration: Immunizations provide crucial protection against various infectious diseases.
• Diabetes Education: Learn how to better manage your diabetes through this educational program.
• Computerized EKG: This test records the electrical activity of your heart to check for any irregularities.
• Chronic Pain Management: Getting help to live better with my persistent pain.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG helps assess the electrical activity of your heart.
• Strength & Conditioning Coaching: Guidance on exercises to build muscle and increase endurance.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An ABG test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Payal Gandhi. 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 Arkansas and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Arkansas State Medical Board.

Dr. Payal Gandhi 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. Payal Gandhi can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With timely antibiotic treatment, patients successfully clear their Granuloma Inguinale infection, allowing them to resume their normal lives free from the discomfort and worry of spreading the infection. They experience healing of genital ulcers and groin sores, restoring confidence and intimacy.
• With proper treatment, patients experience significant relief from the itchiness and inflammation of their nummular dermatitis, allowing them to comfortably participate in their favorite activities and enjoy life without constant discomfort. Their skin's improved condition boosts self-confidence and restores a sense of normalcy.
• With effective treatment, many patients find significant relief from their joint pain, enabling them to return to favorite activities like gardening, hiking, or simply playing with their grandchildren. This renewed mobility improves their overall quality of life and sense of well-being.
• Patients experiencing hair thinning found relief and renewed confidence after addressing the underlying causes of their hair loss. This allowed them to comfortably participate in social events and pursue activities they previously avoided.

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

• Aetna
  • Plan: APCN Choice, Type: POS II
  • Plan: Open Choice, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
• Ambetter
  • Plan: Superior Health Plan
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• QualChoice
  • Plan: Qualchoice PPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Navigate Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • 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. Payal Gandhi 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. Payal Gandhi) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (501) 574-7237 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.

Information on hospital affiliations can be obtained by contacting the clinic.

Dr. Payal Gandhi has completed all necessary medical education and holds current licensure. Specifics can be discussed or verified with The Arkansas State Medical Board.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Payal Gandhi:

Are services from Dr. Payal Gandhi typically covered by health insurance in Arkansas?

Dr. Payal Gandhi, as a Family Physician in Arkansas, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, it is absolutely essential that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office PRIOR to scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. Payal Gandhi 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. Payal Gandhi as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Payal Gandhi 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. Payal Gandhi 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. Payal Gandhi, 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.

Can Dr. Payal Gandhi help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. Payal Gandhi plays a crucial role in mental and behavioral healthcare. She 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. Payal Gandhi 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. Payal Gandhi can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Payal Gandhi?

An initial new patient visit with Dr. Payal Gandhi usually involves a thorough discussion about your health and the completion of intake forms. Be prepared to share your personal and family medical history, a complete list of current medications with dosages, any ongoing health issues, and your overall lifestyle. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. Dr. Payal Gandhi will want to understand your health needs, concerns, and what you expect from your Family Physician/PCP. Depending on the clinic's policy and time allotted, some physicians may perform parts of a physical exam during this first visit, or a separate preventive visit/physical exam might be scheduled for a later date. This initial consultation is key to Dr. Payal Gandhi understanding your health baseline.

How often should I see Dr. Payal Gandhi for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups, often called annual physicals or preventive wellness visits, with Dr. Payal Gandhi can vary based on your age, overall health, existing medical conditions, and specific risk factors. Many insurance plans in the US cover one annual preventive visit for adults with no co-pay. Generally, healthy younger adults may still benefit from regular check-ins (e.g., every 1-3 years if no major concerns, but an annual visit is often encouraged if covered by insurance), while older adults (e.g., annually, especially for Medicare Annual Wellness Visits), or individuals with chronic conditions (diabetes, hypertension) typically require more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-6 months or annually, as determined by Dr. Payal Gandhi). For specific screening tests like Pap smears, mammograms, or colonoscopies, there are established national guidelines (USPSTF, ACS, ACOG) based on age and gender which Dr. Payal Gandhi follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Payal Gandhi to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care.

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

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of what Dr. Payal Gandhi does as your PCP. She will work with you to understand the full picture of your health, help manage various chronic diseases simultaneously, ensure your medications are optimized and appropriate, and coordinate with different specialists to ensure your care is not fragmented and that everyone on your healthcare team is informed. The goal is to provide integrated and patient-centered care that addresses all your needs effectively within the context of your insurance and overall healthcare access.

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

Dr. Payal Gandhi 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. Payal Gandhi 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. Payal Gandhi before scheduling such an appointment.

What happens if Dr. Payal Gandhi determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Seeing a medical specialist in the US often requires a referral from your Family Physician/PCP like Dr. Payal Gandhi, particularly if mandated by your health insurance plan (e.g., HMOs or some POS plans) to ensure coverage at the highest benefit level. After assessing your condition, if Dr. Payal Gandhi believes specialist care is necessary for diagnosis or management, she will discuss this with you and make the appropriate referral, often suggesting specialists who are known to be in-network with common insurance plans. Our office may assist with the insurance pre-authorization process if required. You will then typically be contacted by the specialist's office to arrange your appointment. Remember that specialist wait times can vary, so Dr. Payal Gandhi will continue to manage your care and provide support in the interim.

5 Medical Park Dr Ste GL2
Benton AR 72015
Phone: (501) 574-7237

Dr. Payal Gandhi, MD is regulated by the Arkansas Code, Title 17, Chapter 95 (Medical Practices Act) in Arkansas and is licensed by The Arkansas State Medical Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1215565056

Registration can typically be verified through The Arkansas State Medical Board 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. Payal Gandhi 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.