Dr. Susan McDonald, MD – Family Physician | Bonney Lake, WA

Dr. Susan McDonald, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Bonney Lake, WA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Washington Medical Commission and practices under the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians). Please note: Dr. Susan McDonald is not currently accepting new patients. You may wish to check back periodically for updates or contact (253) 403-1000 to inquire about potential future openings or waitlists.

Dr. Susan McDonald's 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 and brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients, with over 30 years of dedicated experience in family medicine.

Dr. Susan McDonald, MD is a family medicine physician in Bonney Lake, WA and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from University of Washington School of Medicine in 1994. She is affiliated with medical facilities such as Valley Medical Center and Arbor Health-Morton Hospital. Her approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Susan McDonald provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Susan McDonald remains committed to improving the health and well-being of her community.

Dr. Susan McDonald addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Sinus Tachycardia: This condition involves a rapid heart rate, often exceeding 100 beats per minute, and may be addressed through lifestyle modifications and/or medication.
• Thyroid Goiter: This is an enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck and may be managed through medication or surgery depending on the underlying cause and severity.
• Knee Sprain: This involves stretching or tearing of ligaments in the knee joint, often treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).
• Acute Upper Respiratory Infection: This is a common infection of the upper respiratory tract, typically treated with supportive care and symptom management.
• Chronic Pelvic Pain: This involves persistent pain in the pelvic region, often requiring a comprehensive evaluation to identify and address the underlying cause.
• Muscle Cramping: This is an involuntary contraction of muscles, often managed through hydration, stretching, and addressing underlying electrolyte imbalances.
• Sciatica: This is pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, often stemming from nerve compression and managed with pain relief, physical therapy, and other interventions.
• Nosebleed: This involves bleeding from the nose, typically managed with direct pressure and addressing underlying causes such as dryness or trauma.
• Newborn Jaundice: This is a common condition in newborns marked by yellowing of the skin and eyes, often resolving on its own or requiring phototherapy.
• ADHD and-or ADD: These neurodevelopmental disorders may be managed through medication, behavioral therapy, and educational support.
• Low Back Pain: This is pain in the lower back, which can be managed through various treatments, including medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
• Foot Sprain: This involves stretching or tearing of ligaments in the foot, often treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).
• Herpes Simplex Infection: This viral infection causes sores or blisters, often managed with antiviral medication to reduce symptoms and prevent spread.
• Symptomatic Menopause: This involves various symptoms associated with the cessation of menstruation, often managed through hormone replacement therapy or other treatments.

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

• Arrhythmia Screening: This helps detect irregular heartbeats, allowing for early intervention and management of potential heart conditions.
• Breast Cancer Screening: This involves regular mammograms and clinical breast exams to detect breast cancer early.
• Dipstick Urinalysis: This simple test checks for substances in the urine to help diagnose various conditions.
• Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer: This identifies genetic mutations that increase the risk of breast cancer, allowing for proactive management.
• Newborn Metabolic Screening: This helps identify metabolic disorders in newborns, enabling early intervention and treatment.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections Screening: This helps detect STIs, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of complications.
• Syphilis Screening: This detects syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection, allowing for early treatment and prevention of serious health problems.
• Disability Evaluation: This assesses a patient's functional abilities to determine their eligibility for disability benefits.
• Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: This involves managing care for patients with multiple health conditions, coordinating specialists and treatments.
• Fetal Cardiac Screening: This helps detect heart defects in the developing fetus, allowing for early intervention.
• Cancer Screening: This includes various tests to detect cancers early, improving the chances of successful treatment.
• Drug Allergy Testing: This identifies allergies to medications, helping prevent adverse reactions.
• Nuchal Translucency Screening: This helps assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in a developing fetus.
• Health Screening: This involves a range of tests to assess overall health, identify risk factors, and promote preventative care.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Susan McDonald. 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. Susan McDonald 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. Susan McDonald can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients experiencing frequent nosebleeds found relief through effective treatment, allowing them to participate more fully in daily life without the worry of sudden bleeding episodes. This restored confidence and reduced anxiety significantly improved their overall quality of life.
• With careful management, patients often experience a reduction in the size of their goiter and a significant lessening of associated symptoms. This allows them to regain a sense of normalcy and fully participate in their daily lives.
• With consistent effort and the right treatment plan, patients find relief from debilitating low back pain, allowing them to return to the activities they enjoy, such as hiking or playing with their grandchildren. Improved mobility and reduced pain significantly enhance their quality of life.
• With effective treatment, patients find relief from debilitating muscle cramps, allowing them to return to their favorite activities and enjoy a more active lifestyle. They experience renewed mobility and improved quality of life, free from the pain and limitations caused by cramping.

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

• Anthem
  • Plan: National (BlueCard), Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue 2.0
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care, 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. Susan McDonald 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. Susan McDonald) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (253) 403-1000 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. Susan McDonald may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Valley Medical Center (Renton, WA)
• Arbor Health-Morton Hospital (Morton, WA)
• MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital (Puyallup, WA)

She earned her medical degree from University of Washington School of Medicine in 1994.

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. Susan McDonald:

Are services from Dr. Susan McDonald typically covered by health insurance in Washington?

As a Family Physician in Washington, Dr. Susan McDonald 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 at (253) 403-1000 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Susan McDonald 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. Susan McDonald as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Susan McDonald 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. Susan McDonald 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. Susan McDonald, 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 exactly is a Family Physician (Family Physician) and what is their role in the US healthcare system?

A Family Physician, often your Primary Care Physician (PCP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages – from newborns to seniors. In the US healthcare system, they serve as your main point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like wellness visits, immunizations, health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and navigate the complexities of the US healthcare system.

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in Washington 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 Washington Medical Board (or Washington Medical Commission) website may have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups; they often have affiliated family physicians who are accepting new patients and can provide lists of accepted insurances. Finding a doctor can be challenging; be persistent. Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Susan McDonald?

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. Susan McDonald's office. Allow at least 24-72 business hours for processing. 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, which our office can help initiate. Request refills proactively.

What happens if Dr. Susan McDonald determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Seeing a medical specialist often requires a referral from your Family Physician/PCP, especially if mandated by your health insurance plan (e.g., HMOs or some POS plans) to ensure coverage. After assessing your condition, if Dr. Susan McDonald believes specialist care is necessary, she will discuss this with you and make the appropriate referral, often suggesting specialists who are in-network with common insurance plans. Our office may assist with the insurance pre-authorization process. You will then be contacted by the specialist's office to arrange your appointment. Specialist wait times can vary.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Susan McDonald in the US?

Preventative care aims to stop health issues from occurring or catch them early. This includes regular physical exams or wellness visits (many insurance plans cover one per year), vaccinations, screenings for common conditions, and personalized advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s about being proactive with your health.

How long do appointments with Dr. Susan McDonald typically last?

Appointment length varies depending on the reason for your visit. Standard appointments for a single issue or routine follow-up are often 15-20 minutes. Appointments for more complex issues, a comprehensive 'annual physical', a new patient intake, in-depth counseling, or an in-office minor procedure will usually be longer, perhaps 30-45 minutes or more. When booking, mention the reason for your visit so the staff can allocate appropriate time. If you have multiple unrelated issues, you might be advised to book a longer appointment or schedule separate visits.

10004 204th Ave E Ste 3400
Bonney Lake WA 98391
Phone: (253) 403-1000

Dr. Susan McDonald, MD 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): 1740343995

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. Susan McDonald 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.