Dr. Stephen Bucklew, ND – Family Physician | Seattle, WA

Dr. Stephen Bucklew, ND is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Seattle, WA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Stephen ND is registered with The Washington Medical Commission and practices under the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians).

Dr. Stephen ND is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (206) 851-8107 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.

Dr. Stephen ND serves patients of all ages and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. He provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Stephen ND looks forward to supporting the health and well-being of his community through compassionate and effective medical care.

Dr. Stephen ND addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Boil: A boil is a painful, pus-filled bump under your skin caused by a bacterial infection.
• Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris: This is a long-term skin condition affecting most of the body, causing skin to become red, thick, and scaly.
• Poison Sumac Poisoning: This refers to a rash resulting from contact with poison sumac.
• Lichen Sclerosis Et Atrophicus: This condition involves changes in the skin, making it thin, pale, and sometimes itchy, usually affecting the genitals or around the anus.
• Lichen Simplex Chronicus: This skin condition results from a cycle of itching and scratching, leading to thickened and discolored patches of skin.
• Dermatofibroma: It's a small, firm lump under the skin, usually harmless.
• Chancroid: Chancroid is a bacterial infection that causes painful sores on your genitals.

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

• Pulmonary Management of Neuromuscular Disorders: This involves care for lung health issues that often occur with neuromuscular diseases.
• Oral Cancer Screening: This is a quick check for signs of mouth cancer.
• Arterial Duplex Ultrasound: This non-invasive test uses ultrasound to assess blood flow and detect blockages in your arteries.
• House Call: A doctor will visit your home to provide medical care.
• Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) Implantation: This involves having a device implanted that will shock your heart back to a normal rhythm if needed.
• Ultrasound, Transrectal: A rectal ultrasound provides detailed pictures of the prostate to help diagnose problems.
• Lumbar Discography: A lumbar discography is a procedure that uses dye and x-rays to check for problems with the discs in your lower back.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Stephen ND. 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 Washington and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Washington Medical Commission.

Dr. Stephen ND 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. Stephen ND can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With appropriate treatment, patients experienced healing of their genital sores and a significant reduction in pain, allowing them to resume normal sexual activity and daily life with renewed confidence. Their improved comfort level also fostered healthier relationships and better overall well-being.
• Patients experiencing the minor inconvenience of a dermatofibroma often find relief and reassurance after a thorough examination, allowing them to confidently resume their favorite activities without worry. They can then focus on enjoying life, free from unnecessary concern about the small skin lump.
• With consistent treatment, patients experience significant relief from the persistent itching and inflammation associated with lichen simplex chronicus, leading to clearer skin and a renewed ability to enjoy everyday activities without discomfort. They find themselves less self-conscious and more confident in social situations.

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

Dr. Stephen ND and the clinic may participate in various health insurance plans common in Washington. Please contact our office or your insurer for details.

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. Stephen ND 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. Stephen ND) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (206) 851-8107 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. Stephen ND has completed all necessary medical education and holds current licensure. Specifics can be discussed or verified with The Washington Medical Commission.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Stephen ND:

Are services from Dr. Stephen ND typically covered by health insurance in Washington?

Dr. Stephen ND, as a Family Physician in Washington, 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 at (206) 851-8107 PRIOR to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Stephen ND is 'in-network' for your plan and to fully understand your 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 our office about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Stephen ND 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. Stephen ND 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. Stephen ND, 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 do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Stephen ND?

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. Stephen ND'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 with Dr. Stephen ND, an appointment will likely be required. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization for certain medications, which our office can help initiate. It is always best to request refills proactively and not wait until you are completely out of medication.

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 at the time of service. Your insurance plan pays the rest. A deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for covered healthcare services *before* your insurance plan starts to pay. 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, which you pay *after* you've met your deductible. These amounts and how they apply vary greatly by insurance plan. Dr. Stephen ND recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

Can Dr. Stephen ND help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Family Physicians like Dr. Stephen ND are integral to supporting patients' mental health. He can assess symptoms of common mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, ADHD - initial screen), offer initial treatment options including counseling on coping mechanisms and medication if suitable, and connect you with more specialized mental health professionals or resources if your needs are more complex.

What does PCP mean and is Dr. Stephen ND one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Stephen ND, as a Family Physician, serves as a PCP. Your PCP is your main doctor for general health needs, preventative care, and is usually the first point of contact for most medical issues. He manages a wide range of health concerns and coordinates your overall care, including providing referrals to specialists if needed. Many health insurance plans require you to select or be assigned a designated PCP.

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

The recommended frequency for check-ups varies based on your age, overall health, existing medical conditions, and risk factors. Many insurance plans cover one annual preventive visit. Generally, healthy younger adults may benefit from regular check-ins (e.g., every 1-3 years), while older adults or individuals with chronic conditions typically require more frequent visits. For specific screening tests, there are established guidelines which Dr. Stephen ND follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Stephen ND.

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

First, check your health insurance plan's 'Find a Doctor' tool to find in-network PCPs. Also, use the 'Physician Finder' tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The Washington Medical Commission website may have search tools. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local hospital systems or medical groups. Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling.

4500 9th Ave NE Ste 375
Seattle WA 98105
Phone: (206) 851-8107

Dr. Stephen Bucklew, ND is regulated by the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians) in Washington and is licensed by The Washington Medical Commission.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1528472826

Registration can typically be verified through The Washington Medical Commission 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. Stephen ND 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.