Dr. Rachel Hamilton, MD – Family Physician | North Conway, NH

Dr. Rachel Hamilton, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in North Conway, NH. To confirm if Dr. Rachel Hamilton is currently accepting new patients, please contact (603) 356-5461.

She 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. Dr. Rachel Hamilton serves patients of all ages.

Dr. Rachel Hamilton, MD is a family medicine physician in North Conway, NH and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from UNIVERSITY OF NEW ENGLAND / MAIN CAMPUS in 2009. She is affiliated with Memorial Hospital. She is accepting telehealth appointments. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. She is registered with The New Hampshire Board of Medicine and practices under the New Hampshire Revised Statutes, Chapter 329 (Physicians and Surgeons). Dr. Rachel Hamilton provides consultations primarily in English. Her approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and building strong, collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Rachel Hamilton is committed to ensuring the ongoing health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.

Dr. Rachel Hamilton addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Hyperkalemia: This condition involves dangerously high levels of potassium in the blood, requiring prompt medical attention.
• Onychomycosis: This is a fungal infection affecting the toenails or fingernails, often causing discoloration and thickening.
• Vertigo: Characterized by a sensation of spinning or dizziness, vertigo can significantly impact daily life.
• Constipation: This involves infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often causing discomfort and straining.
• Migraine: These severe headaches often cause throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.
• Rash: Rashes are skin irritations with various causes, often presenting as redness, itching, or bumps.
• Indigestion: This involves discomfort in the upper abdomen, often after eating.
• Radiculopathy: This is nerve pain originating in the spinal column, often causing radiating pain in the limbs.
• Cough: A cough is a reflex action to clear the airways of irritants, often caused by infections or allergies.
• Leukocytopenia: This condition involves an abnormally low white blood cell count, increasing the risk of infection.
• Onychogryphosis: This is a condition where toenails become abnormally thickened and curved, often due to trauma or underlying conditions.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This involves stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, often causing heartburn and discomfort.
• Anosmia: This is the loss of the sense of smell, which can have various underlying causes.
• Iron Metabolism Disorders: These involve problems with the body's ability to absorb, use, or store iron, potentially leading to anemia or other complications.

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

• Skin Testing and Screening: This helps identify potential skin problems and allergies.
• Puncture Aspiration: This procedure involves removing fluid from a cyst or other lesion using a needle.
• Psychological Evaluations Prior to Bariatric Surgery: This assesses the mental health readiness for weight-loss surgery.
• Hepatitis A Screening: This test detects the presence of antibodies indicating past or current infection.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: This helps manage the symptoms associated with menopause.
• STD Screening: This involves testing for sexually transmitted infections.
• Fetal Cardiac Screening: This uses ultrasound to evaluate the baby's heart during pregnancy.
• Melanoma Screening: This involves examining the skin for signs of melanoma.
• McMurray's Test: This physical exam helps evaluate the knee for meniscus injury.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This blood test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This assesses mental health conditions and provides treatment recommendations.
• Trichomoniasis Screening: This test detects the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis infection.
• Dementia Evaluation: This assesses cognitive decline and identifies potential causes.
• Mammography: This imaging test helps detect breast cancer.

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

Dr. Rachel Hamilton 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. Rachel Hamilton can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients experiencing constipation found relief through a personalized treatment plan, allowing them to regain comfortable bowel regularity and enjoy their favorite activities without discomfort. This restored digestive health significantly improved their overall well-being and quality of life.
• With effective migraine management, patients often experience a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of their headaches. This allows them to return to work, enjoy social activities, and live more fulfilling lives.
• With the right treatment, patients often see their rashes clear up quickly, allowing them to comfortably resume their normal activities and enjoy life without the discomfort and self-consciousness of a persistent skin irritation.
• With careful management of their iron metabolism disorder, patients often experience a significant reduction in fatigue and improved energy levels, allowing them to return to their favorite activities and enjoy a fuller life. They find renewed vitality and are able to participate more fully in work, family life, and social activities.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Rachel Hamilton, 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 North Conway, New Hampshire area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in North Conway and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving North Conway. 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. Rachel Hamilton. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Rachel Hamilton 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
  • Plan: Elect Choice (Open Access), Type: EPO
  • Plan: Managed Choice (Open Access), Type: POS
  • Plan: Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
  • Plan: Select
• Anthem
  • Plan: Blue Choice-ME, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Pathway X Enhanced/Ind Direct Access NH, Type: POS
  • Plan: Preferred Blue Network-NH, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts
  • Plan: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Preferred Blue, Type: PPO
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
  • Plan: ChoiceNet, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Harvard Pilgrim Health Care HMO
  • Plan: Harvard Pilgrim Health Care PPO
  • Plan: Maines Choice - Preferred, Type: HMO
• Tufts Health Plan
  • Plan: Tufts, Type: PPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Medica Choice
  • 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. Rachel Hamilton 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. Rachel Hamilton) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (603) 356-5461 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. Rachel Hamilton may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Memorial Hospital (North Conway, NH)

She earned her medical degree from UNIVERSITY OF NEW ENGLAND / MAIN CAMPUS in 2009.

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. Rachel Hamilton:

Are services from Dr. Rachel Hamilton typically covered by health insurance in New Hampshire?

As a Family Physician in New Hampshire, Dr. Rachel Hamilton 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 essential that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (603) 356-5461 prior to scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. Rachel Hamilton 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. Rachel Hamilton as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Rachel Hamilton 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. Rachel Hamilton 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. Rachel Hamilton, 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 is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Rachel Hamilton?

Having continuity of care with Dr. Rachel Hamilton means that she is your consistent point of contact for your health needs over many years, serving as your 'medical home'. This long-term relationship allows Dr. Rachel Hamilton to understand the nuances of your health, track changes over time, and provide care that is personalized and proactive. It improves communication, reduces duplication of tests and potential for conflicting medical advice, helps in managing chronic conditions more effectively, and fosters a stronger physician-patient partnership, all leading to better overall health management within the US healthcare system.

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

'In-network' means Dr. Rachel Hamilton (or the clinic she 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. Rachel Hamilton'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.

What happens if Dr. Rachel Hamilton determines I need to see a medical specialist?

As your Family Physician/PCP, Dr. Rachel Hamilton acts as your primary care coordinator. If she believes your condition requires specialized assessment or treatment, she will explain why a specialist consultation is necessary and will arrange the referral. This process will consider your insurance plan's requirements for specialist referrals and in-network providers. Dr. Rachel Hamilton will send your pertinent medical details to the specialist. It's important to keep our clinic informed of any specialist appointments you attend and any new diagnoses or treatments recommended by the specialist so Dr. Rachel Hamilton can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively and maintain a complete medical record.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Rachel Hamilton?

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. Rachel Hamilton's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed by Dr. Rachel Hamilton 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. Rachel Hamilton, often 6-12 months) since your last review with Dr. Rachel Hamilton, 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 does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Rachel Hamilton in the US?

Preventative care provided by Dr. Rachel Hamilton aims to stop health issues from occurring or to catch them at an early, more manageable stage, following established US guidelines. This includes regular physical exams or wellness visits (many insurance plans cover one per year), vaccinations, screenings for common conditions like certain cancers or heart disease risk factors (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes), and personalized advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking. It’s about being proactive with your health, and Dr. Rachel Hamilton can help guide you in these efforts.

Can you explain common health insurance terms like co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance?

Certainly! A co-pay (or copayment) is a fixed amount (e.g., $25 or $50) you pay for a covered healthcare service, like a doctor's visit or a prescription, at the time of service. Your insurance plan pays the rest of the allowed amount. A deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for covered healthcare services *before* your insurance plan starts to pay its share (e.g., you might have a $1,000 annual deductible). Preventive services are often covered before meeting the deductible. Co-insurance is your share of the costs of a covered healthcare service, calculated as a percentage (e.g., 20%) of the allowed amount for the service, which you pay *after* you've met your deductible. For example, if the allowed amount is $100 and your co-insurance is 20%, you pay $20 and your insurer pays $80 (after deductible). These amounts and how they apply vary greatly by insurance plan. Dr. Rachel Hamilton recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

3073 White Mountain Hwy
North Conway NH 03860
Phone: (603) 356-5461

Dr. Rachel Hamilton, MD is regulated by the New Hampshire Revised Statutes, Chapter 329 (Physicians and Surgeons) in New Hampshire and is licensed by The New Hampshire Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1053549394

Registration can typically be verified through The New Hampshire 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. Rachel Hamilton 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.