Dr. Richard Wallace, MD – Family Physician | Clearwater, FL

Dr. Richard Wallace, MD is a Family Physician practicing at Bayside Urgent Care Center in Clearwater, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice).

Dr. Richard Wallace is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (727) 242-9185 to inquire or schedule an appointment. His practice focuses on 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. Richard Wallace's career reflects a commitment to patient well-being. His background includes Family Medicine and Sports Medicine, with undergraduate studies at USF and medical school at Meharry Medical College. He completed his Family Medicine Residency at USF/MPM and a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Bayfront Medical Center. His experience in urgent care clinics, starting in 2003, led him to his current practice where he strives to deliver medical care that surpasses expectations, mirroring the high standard he would provide for his own family. Dr. Richard Wallace provides consultations primarily in English. He looks forward to continuing to serve the Clearwater community and ensuring the best possible healthcare for his patients.

Dr. Richard Wallace addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Osteoarthritis of Spine: This condition involves the breakdown of cartilage in the spine, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Vertigo: This involves a sensation of spinning or dizziness.
• Sleep-Related Leg Cramp: These painful cramps occur during sleep, often affecting the calf muscles.
• Limb Swelling: Swelling in an arm or leg can indicate various underlying medical issues.
• Limb Pain: Pain in an arm or leg can result from various causes, from minor injuries to serious conditions.
• Knee Sprain: A knee sprain involves stretching or tearing of the ligaments in the knee joint.
• Tinnitus: This involves experiencing a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears.
• Allergies: Allergies are caused by the body's immune system overreacting to harmless substances.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI is an infection of the urinary tract, typically affecting the bladder.
• Diabetes Type 2: Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels.
• Sciatica: Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, typically affecting the lower back and leg.
• Cough: A cough can be a symptom of various respiratory illnesses or other conditions.
• Dizziness: Dizziness is a common symptom with many potential causes.
• Osteoarthritis of Hip: This involves the breakdown of cartilage in the hip joint, leading to pain and stiffness.

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

• Health Screening: Comprehensive health screenings help identify potential health issues early.
• Diabetic Evaluation: This service assesses and manages diabetes and related health conditions.
• Musculoskeletal Function Test: This test assesses the function of muscles and bones.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This evaluates lipid levels in the blood.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG measures the electrical activity of the heart.
• Vaccination: Vaccinations protect against various infectious diseases.
• Pregnancy Test: A pregnancy test determines if a woman is pregnant.
• Urinalysis: Urinalysis examines the urine for abnormalities.
• Impairment Rating Evaluation: This assesses the extent of physical impairment.
• Thyroid Screening: This service screens for thyroid disorders.
• Chest Pain Evaluation: This evaluates the cause of chest pain.
• Syphilis Screening: This service screens for syphilis infection.
• Psychological Evaluation: This assesses mental health and emotional well-being.
• STD Screening: This service screens for sexually transmitted diseases.

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

Dr. Richard Wallace 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. Richard Wallace can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With proper treatment and physical therapy, patients regain full mobility in their knee, allowing them to return to their favorite activities, whether it's hiking, playing sports, or simply enjoying walks without pain. They experience a significant improvement in their quality of life and a renewed sense of freedom.
• With effective treatment, patients experiencing limb pain found significant relief, allowing them to return to favorite activities like gardening or playing with their grandchildren without discomfort. Their improved mobility and reduced pain boosted their overall quality of life.
• With proper management, patients experience a significant reduction in limb swelling, leading to increased comfort and the ability to resume favorite activities without pain or discomfort. They are then able to enjoy a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
• Patients experiencing UTIs found relief through prompt treatment, allowing them to quickly return to their normal activities without discomfort. This restored their ability to enjoy daily life, free from the pain and urgency associated with the infection.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Richard Wallace, 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 Clearwater, Florida area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Clearwater and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Clearwater. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Patients usually find parking readily available in the vicinity of the practice.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Richard Wallace. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Richard Wallace or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
• Cigna
• Coventry Health Care
• Medicare
• MultiPlan
• 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. Richard Wallace 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. Richard Wallace) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (727) 242-9185 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.

He earned his medical degree from Meharry Medical College. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at USF/MPM Family Medicine Residency Program, honing skills in comprehensive patient care. To further specialize, he pursued fellowship training in Bayfront Medical Center, deepening his expertise.

Are services from Dr. Richard Wallace typically covered by health insurance in Florida?

As a Family Physician in Florida, Dr. Richard Wallace 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 Bayside Urgent Care Center's office prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Richard Wallace 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. If you are uninsured or a self-pay patient, please ask the clinic about their policies.

Do I typically need a referral to see Dr. Richard Wallace as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Richard Wallace 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. Richard Wallace 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. Richard Wallace, 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.

How long do appointments with Dr. Richard Wallace typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Richard Wallace can vary depending on the reason for your visit. In the US, standard appointments for a single, focused issue or a routine follow-up are often scheduled for 15-20 minutes. Appointments for more complex issues, a comprehensive 'annual physical' or 'preventive wellness visit' (especially Medicare Annual Wellness Visits, which have specific components), a new patient intake appointment, in-depth counseling, or an in-office minor procedure will usually be scheduled for a longer duration, perhaps 30-45 minutes or even more. When booking your appointment at Bayside Urgent Care Center, it's always best to briefly mention the reason for your visit so the staff can try to allocate the appropriate amount of time with Dr. Richard Wallace. If you have multiple unrelated issues to discuss, you might be advised to book a longer appointment or schedule separate visits to ensure each concern can be addressed thoroughly without rushing.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Richard Wallace?

Always bring your insurance card(s) and a form of photo ID to your appointment with Dr. Richard Wallace. A complete list of all medications you're currently taking (prescription, non-prescription, natural health products), including dosages, is crucial for Dr. Richard Wallace 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.

What does PCP mean and is Dr. Richard Wallace one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Richard Wallace, 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 manage a wide range of health concerns and coordinate 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.

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

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

The recommended frequency for check-ups, often called annual physicals or preventive wellness visits, with Dr. Richard Wallace 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. Richard Wallace). 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. Richard Wallace follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Richard Wallace to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when Bayside Urgent Care Center 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 Bayside Urgent Care Center reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like Bayside Urgent Care Center, 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 [(727) 242-9185] 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.

Bayside Urgent Care Center
1001 S Fort Harrison Ave Ste 101
Clearwater FL 33756
Phone: (727) 242-9185

Dr. Richard Wallace, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1275586448

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida 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. Richard Wallace 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.