Dr. Shaista Hussain, MD – Family Physician | Douglas, GA

To confirm if Dr. Shaista Hussain is currently accepting new patients, please contact (912) 383-7826.

Dr. Shaista Hussain, MD is a Family Physician. Practicing at her clinic in Douglas, GA, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Georgia Composite Medical Board and practices under the Georgia Code, Title 43, Chapter 34 (Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Others). Dr. Shaista Hussain provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Shaista Hussain, MD is a family medicine physician in Douglas, GA and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from University of Missouri in 2009. She is affiliated with Coffee Regional Medical Center. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. Her 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. She serves patients of all ages.

Dr. Shaista Hussain's approach to care emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. She is committed to providing the best possible care and improving the health and well-being of her patients and the Douglas community.

Dr. Shaista Hussain addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Outer Ear Infection: This is an infection of the outer ear canal, often caused by bacteria or fungi.
• Polyuria: This refers to excessive urination, often a symptom of underlying medical conditions.
• Hip Pointer: This is a bruise to the hip bone, typically caused by direct impact.
• Thyroid Goiter: This is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can be caused by various factors.
• Pneumonia: This is a lung infection that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
• Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: This is a common viral infection affecting the upper respiratory tract.
• All Headaches (incl. Migraine): These range from mild to severe and can have various underlying causes.
• Kidney Infection: This is a bacterial infection of the kidneys.
• Hyperkalemia: This is a condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood.
• Chronic Prostatitis: This is a long-term inflammation of the prostate gland.
• Low Back Pain: This is a common complaint with various possible causes.
• Constipation: This refers to infrequent or difficult bowel movements.
• Osteoarthritis of Knee: This is a type of arthritis affecting the knee joint.
• Nausea: This is a feeling of sickness in the stomach, often accompanied by the urge to vomit.

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

• Pre-Operative Evaluation: This involves assessing a patient's health before surgery to ensure they are fit for the procedure.
• Rapid Flu Test: A quick test to detect influenza viruses.
• Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: Services to assess and address substance abuse issues.
• Mammography: A breast imaging procedure to detect breast cancer.
• Joint Fluid Test: Analysis of fluid from a joint to diagnose conditions like arthritis.
• Skin Screenings: Examinations to detect skin cancers and other skin conditions.
• Hepatitis Screening: Tests to detect hepatitis viruses.
• Diabetes Screening: Tests to detect diabetes.
• Vaginosis Screening: Testing for bacterial vaginosis.
• VAP Lipid Testing: Testing to assess lipid levels (cholesterol, triglycerides).
• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: A test to detect hidden blood in stool, which could indicate colorectal cancer.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: An online tool to assess cardiovascular risk.
• Drug Allergy Testing: Testing to identify drug allergies.
• Vaccination: Administration of vaccines to prevent infectious diseases.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Shaista Hussain. 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 Georgia and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Georgia Composite Medical Board.

Dr. Shaista Hussain 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. Shaista Hussain can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With prompt treatment, patients suffering from pneumonia often experience a rapid reduction in symptoms, allowing them to breathe easier and quickly return to their normal activities. They are soon able to enjoy a full recovery and resume their daily lives with renewed vigor.
• With consistent treatment, patients find relief from debilitating low back pain, enabling them to return to favorite activities like gardening or hiking with renewed energy and reduced discomfort. They rediscover mobility and enjoy a greater quality of life.
• With effective management, patients experience reduced knee pain and stiffness, enabling them to return to activities they enjoy, such as walking, gardening, or playing with grandchildren. Improved mobility and less pain significantly enhance their quality of life.
• With proper treatment and rest, patients experiencing hip pointer pain often find significant relief and are able to return to their favorite activities, such as sports or other physical hobbies, without discomfort. This allows them to regain their active lifestyles and enjoy improved mobility.

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

• Anthem
  • Plan: Blue Open Access Alternate Network, Type: POS
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
  • Plan: Blue Open Access, Type: POS
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus

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. Shaista Hussain 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. Shaista Hussain) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (912) 383-7826 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. Shaista Hussain may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Coffee Regional Medical Center (Douglas, GA)

She earned her medical degree from University of Missouri 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. Shaista Hussain:

Are services from Dr. Shaista Hussain typically covered by health insurance in Georgia?

As a Family Physician in Georgia, Dr. Shaista Hussain 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 an appointment to confirm that Dr. Shaista Hussain 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. Shaista Hussain as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Shaista Hussain 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. Shaista Hussain 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. Shaista Hussain, 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.

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

Yes, Dr. Shaista Hussain 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. Shaista Hussain 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. Shaista Hussain before scheduling such an appointment.

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

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

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

First, check your health insurance plan's 'Find a Doctor' or 'Provider Directory' tool (often available 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 Georgia Medical Board (using Georgia Composite Medical Board if available) website may sometimes have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations of doctors they trust and who might be accepting patients. 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 and may require persistence. Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling the first appointment.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when the clinic 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 our clinic reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like ours, 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 [(912) 383-7826] 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.

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

'In-network' means Dr. Shaista Hussain (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. Shaista Hussain'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.

How long do appointments with Dr. Shaista Hussain typically last?

Appointment times with Dr. Shaista Hussain will vary based on the purpose of the visit. For a quick follow-up on a stable issue or a very straightforward problem, 15 minutes might suffice. For annual physicals/wellness visits, new patient consultations, or if you have several health concerns to discuss, Dr. Shaista Hussain will usually book a longer slot, such as 30-45 minutes, or occasionally more. Always try to be specific about your needs when scheduling your appointment at the clinic so the team can ensure enough time is set aside with Dr. Shaista Hussain to address your concerns thoroughly and effectively.

1101 Ocilla Rd
Douglas GA 31533
Phone: (912) 383-7826

Dr. Shaista Hussain, MD is regulated by the Georgia Code, Title 43, Chapter 34 (Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Others) in Georgia and is licensed by The Georgia Composite Medical Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1952663866

Registration can typically be verified through The Georgia Composite 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. Shaista Hussain 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.