Dr. Rachelle Hanft, MD – Family Physician | Concord, CA

Dr. Rachelle Hanft, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Concord, CA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Medical Board of California (MBC) and practices under the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 5 (Medical Practice Act).

Please note: Dr. Rachelle Hanft is not currently accepting new patients. You may wish to check back periodically for updates or contact (925) 677-0500 to inquire about potential future openings or waitlists.

Dr. Rachelle Hanft 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. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. Dr. Hanft enjoys building relationships with her patients and helping them make long-term healthy lifestyle changes. She emphasizes compassionate care focused on taking care of the entire family. Dr. Rachelle Hanft provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Rachelle Hanft is committed to the ongoing health and well-being of her community and her patients.

Dr. Rachelle Hanft addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Urinary Stones: These are hard deposits that form in the kidneys or urinary tract.
• Osteoarthritis of Knee: This involves the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint, causing pain and stiffness.
• Diabetes Type 2: A chronic condition where the body doesn't use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar.
• Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the anus and rectum, causing pain, itching, and bleeding.
• Osteoarthritis of Hip: This is the breakdown of cartilage in the hip joint, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
• Sinus Bradycardia: A condition where the heart beats too slowly.
• Sleep-Related Leg Cramp: Painful muscle spasms in the legs that occur during sleep.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.
• Overweight: Carrying more body fat than is considered healthy for your height and build.
• All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Pain in the head, ranging from mild to severe, with various causes.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, causing numbness, tingling, and pain.
• Nail Infection: Infection of the nail bed or surrounding skin.
• Foot Infection: Infection of the tissues in the foot.
• Ganglion Cyst: A fluid-filled lump that commonly forms on the tendons or joints.

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

• Strep Test: A quick test to detect Streptococcus bacteria, a common cause of strep throat.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: Evaluations to assess for cognitive impairment or depressive symptoms.
• Lyme Disease Evaluation: Assessment for symptoms and potential exposure to Lyme disease.
• Thyroid Screening: Tests to evaluate thyroid hormone levels.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: An online tool to assess cardiovascular risk factors.
• Mole Removal: Surgical removal of moles, often for cosmetic or diagnostic purposes.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: Evaluation of spinal alignment and posture.
• Syphilis Screening: Testing for the sexually transmitted infection syphilis.
• McMurray's Test: A physical examination technique used to assess for meniscus tears in the knee.
• Gonorrhea Screening: Testing for the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: Assessment and support for alcohol-related issues.
• Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: Assessment and support for alcohol or substance abuse.
• Immunization Administration: Provision of vaccines to protect against various infectious diseases.
• Memory Evaluation: Assessment of cognitive function and memory.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Rachelle Hanft. 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 California and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Medical Board of California (MBC).

Dr. Rachelle Hanft 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. Rachelle Hanft can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With proper management, patients find relief from the nightly leg cramps, allowing them to enjoy restful sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle their day. This improved sleep quality often leads to increased energy levels and a better overall quality of life.
• With effective treatment, patients find relief from the numbness and tingling of carpal tunnel syndrome, allowing them to return to their favorite hobbies and activities, like knitting or playing their instrument. Their improved hand function restores a sense of normalcy and independence to daily life.
• With proper management, patients experience reduced knee pain and stiffness, enabling them to return to activities they enjoy, such as gardening or walking. This improved mobility significantly enhances their quality of life and overall well-being.
• Many patients successfully shed excess weight and lower their health risks through consistent lifestyle changes. This allows them to enjoy increased energy levels and participate more fully in the activities they love.

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

• Aetna
• Anthem
  • Plan: Silver (CaliforniaCare HMO/ Small Grp), Type: HMO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Cross and Blue Shield
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of California
• Blue Shield of California
• Buckeye Community Health Plan
  • Plan: Medicare
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Choice Health
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care)
• Government Employees Health Association (GEHA)
  • Plan: GEHA
• Health Net
  • Plan: Tricare
• MultiPlan
  • Plan: MultiPlan PPO
• PacificSource
• Providence Health Plans
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: United Healthcare

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. Rachelle Hanft 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. Rachelle Hanft) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (925) 677-0500 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. Rachelle Hanft may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• John Muir Medical Center Concord (Concord, CA)
• John Muir Medical Center Walnut Creek (Walnut Creek, CA)

She earned her medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in 2007. Following medical school, she undertook residency training in Family Medicine at Providence Milwaukie Fam Prac Prgm (graduated 2010), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

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. Rachelle Hanft:

Are services from Dr. Rachelle Hanft typically covered by health insurance in California?

As a Family Physician in California, Dr. Rachelle Hanft likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, it is absolutely imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office at (925) 677-0500 prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Rachelle Hanft 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. Rachelle Hanft as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Rachelle Hanft 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. Rachelle Hanft 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. Rachelle Hanft, 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.

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

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of what Dr. Rachelle Hanft 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.

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. Rachelle Hanft recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in California who is accepting new patients and takes my insurance?

First, check your health insurance plan's 'Find a Doctor' or 'Provider Directory' tool (often online or via their member services phone number) to find in-network PCPs. This is the most reliable way to ensure coverage. Also use the 'Physician Finder' tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The California Medical Board website may have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups, as they often have affiliated family physicians who are accepting new patients and can provide lists of accepted insurances. It can be challenging; verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling.

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

Dr. Rachelle Hanft 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. Rachelle Hanft 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. Rachelle Hanft before scheduling such an appointment.

What exactly is a Family Physician (Family Physician) and what is their role in the US healthcare system?

A 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 is 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 do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Rachelle Hanft?

For most routine prescription refills, 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. Rachelle Hanft's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed. For certain medications (e.g., controlled substances, medications requiring close monitoring), or if it has been a significant time since your last review, an appointment will likely be required. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization; our office can help. It is always best to request refills proactively and not wait until you are completely out of medication.

2700 Grant St Ste 200
Concord CA 94520
Phone: (925) 677-0500

Dr. Rachelle Hanft, MD is regulated by the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 5 (Medical Practice Act) in California and is licensed by The Medical Board of California (MBC).

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1437306313

Registration can typically be verified through The Medical Board of California (MBC) 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. Rachelle Hanft 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.