Dr. Thomas Ellington, MD – Family Physician | Gainesville, GA

Dr. Thomas Ellington, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Gainesville, GA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Georgia Composite Medical Board and practices under the Georgia Code, Title 43, Chapter 34 (Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Others).

Dr. Thomas Ellington is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (770) 219-2627 to inquire or schedule an appointment. His focus is 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. Thomas Ellington, MD is a family medicine physician in Gainesville, GA and has over 5 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Ross University School of Medicine in 2016. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville and Northeast Georgia Medical Center Lumpkin. With over 5 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients. He serves patients of all ages and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Thomas Ellington provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Thomas Ellington is committed to providing the best possible care to his patients and to improving the health of his community.

Dr. Thomas Ellington addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Osteopenia: This condition involves decreased bone density, increasing the risk of fractures.
• Shortness of Breath: This symptom can have various underlying causes and requires a thorough evaluation to determine the appropriate treatment.
• Gout: This type of arthritis is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints.
• Polyuria: This refers to excessive urination, which can be a symptom of several medical conditions.
• Sarcoidosis: This is a disease that causes inflammation in multiple organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes.
• Hyperlipidemia: This involves elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Gonorrhea Infections: These sexually transmitted infections require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.
• Atherosclerosis: This is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow.
• Dysentery: This is an infection of the intestines that causes bloody diarrhea.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): This involves pain around the kneecap, often caused by overuse or injury.
• Sprains and Strains (incl. Muscle Tear): These injuries involve damage to ligaments, tendons, or muscles.
• Nasopharyngitis: This is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, commonly known as the common cold.
• Dermatitis Due to Substances Taken Internally: This type of dermatitis is caused by an allergic reaction to substances ingested.
• Bronchitis: This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

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

• Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening: This screening helps detect low red blood cell counts and iron deficiency.
• Urine Pregnancy Test: This test detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine to confirm pregnancy.
• Cancer Screening: This involves various tests to detect cancer early, improving treatment outcomes.
• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: This service helps identify and address alcohol misuse.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This test measures lipid levels in the blood to assess cardiovascular risk.
• Hepatitis Screening: This screening detects the presence of hepatitis viruses.
• Dementia Evaluation: This evaluation assesses cognitive function to detect potential dementia.
• Gonorrhea Screening: This screening detects the presence of gonorrhea infection.
• Fetal Cardiac Monitoring: This monitors the fetal heartbeat during pregnancy.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: This screening assesses spinal alignment and posture.
• Thyroid Screening: This screening measures thyroid hormone levels.
• Psychiatric Evaluation: This evaluation assesses mental health and provides appropriate treatment.
• Pregnancy Ultrasound: This imaging technique provides a visual of the fetus during pregnancy.
• Psychiatric Evaluation - Child and Adolescent: This specialized evaluation focuses on the mental health of children and adolescents.

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

• With proper care and rest, patients typically find relief from their nasopharyngitis symptoms within a week or two. This allows them to return to their normal routines and activities, breathing easier and feeling much better overall.
• With careful monitoring and treatment, many sarcoidosis patients experience a significant reduction in symptoms, allowing them to return to their normal lives and pursue their passions. Improved lung function and reduced inflammation often lead to increased energy levels and a better overall quality of life.
• With careful management of their hyperlipidemia, patients often see significant improvements in their cholesterol levels, reducing their risk of heart disease and allowing them to enjoy a more active and fulfilling life. They are able to participate more fully in the activities they love, knowing they are taking proactive steps for their long-term health.
• Patients experiencing shortness of breath often find relief through tailored treatment plans, allowing them to return to activities they enjoy, such as gardening or spending time with loved ones without feeling winded. This renewed ability to participate in life's simple pleasures significantly improves their overall quality of life.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Thomas Ellington, 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 Gainesville, Georgia area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Gainesville and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Gainesville. 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. Thomas Ellington. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Thomas Ellington 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
  • Plan: Pathway, Type: HMO
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna HMO
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: LocalPlus
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care Network, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
  • Plan: HMO Premier, Type: HMO
  • Plan: National, Type: POS
  • Plan: Preferred, 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. Thomas Ellington 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. Thomas Ellington) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (770) 219-2627 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. Thomas Ellington may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Northeast Georgia Medical Center Lumpkin (Dahlonega, GA)
• Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville (Gainesville, GA)
• Phoebe Sumter Medical Center (Americus, GA)

He earned his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in 2016.

He is Board Certified in Family Practice by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Thomas Ellington:

Are services from Dr. Thomas Ellington typically covered by health insurance in Georgia?

As a Family Physician in Georgia, Dr. Thomas Ellington 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 (770) 219-2627 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Thomas Ellington is 'in-network' for your plan and to understand your specific 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 the clinic about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Thomas Ellington 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. Thomas Ellington 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. Thomas Ellington, 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 is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Thomas Ellington?

Having continuity of care with Dr. Thomas Ellington means that he is your consistent point of contact for your health needs over many years, serving as your 'medical home'. This long-term relationship allows Dr. Thomas Ellington to understand the nuances of your health, track changes over time, and provide care that is personalized and proactive. It improves communication, reduces duplication of tests and potential for conflicting medical advice, helps in managing chronic conditions more effectively, and fosters a stronger physician-patient partnership, all leading to better overall health management within the US healthcare system.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Thomas Ellington?

When you first meet Dr. Thomas Ellington as a new patient, expect to spend time discussing your complete health profile and filling out necessary registration and insurance forms. He will likely ask about your past medical history, significant family illnesses, all current medications (including vitamins and supplements - bringing them with you is often helpful), allergies, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and substance use, and any specific health concerns or goals you have. This comprehensive intake helps Dr. Thomas Ellington understand your overall health status and begin to formulate a long-term, personalized care plan. It's also an excellent time to ask any questions you may have about his approach to medicine or clinic procedures, including how they handle communication and urgent needs.

How long do appointments with Dr. Thomas Ellington typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Thomas Ellington 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 the clinic, 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. Thomas Ellington. 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.

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

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

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

Your Family Physician (Family Physician) is your primary healthcare provider in the US, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues. He manages acute illnesses, oversees care for long-term chronic diseases, provides routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling (often part of annual wellness visits or Medicare Annual Wellness Visits for seniors), administers vaccinations, and ensures you get access to specialized medical services through referrals, often navigating insurance requirements. The continuity of care he provides, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine and can lead to better health outcomes.

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

First and foremost, 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. You can also use the 'Physician Finder' tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The Georgia Medical Board (or Georgia Composite Medical Board) 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. Finding a doctor can be challenging, so be persistent. Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling your first appointment.

743 Spring St NE
Gainesville GA 30501
Phone: (770) 219-2627

Dr. Thomas Ellington, 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): 1629420575

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. Thomas Ellington 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.