Dr. Thomas Ortiz, MD – Family Physician | Newark, NJ

Dr. Thomas Ortiz, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Newark, NJ. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners and practices under the New Jersey Statutes, Title 45, Chapter 9 (Medicine and Surgery).

Dr. Thomas Ortiz is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (973) 483-3640 to inquire or schedule an appointment. He provides 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 Ortiz, MD is a family medicine physician in Newark, NJ and has over 40 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in 1981. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Clara Maass Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. With over 40 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 accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. His approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Thomas Ortiz is fluent in Portuguese and also offers consultations in Spanish. Dr. Thomas Ortiz is committed to providing compassionate and accessible care, ensuring the well-being of his patients and the community he serves.

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

• Neck Strain (incl. Whiplash Injury): This condition involves pain and stiffness in the neck, often resulting from injury or overuse.
• Nasopharyngitis: This is a common viral infection of the nose and throat, often characterized by a runny nose, sore throat, and congestion.
• Outer Ear Infection: This infection affects the outer ear canal and is often caused by bacteria or fungi, leading to pain, itching, and discharge.
• Animal Allergies: These allergies occur when the body's immune system reacts to proteins found in animal dander, saliva, or urine.
• Testicular Dysfunction: This refers to a range of conditions affecting the testicles, potentially impacting hormone production or fertility.
• Shoulder Tendinitis and Tenosynovitis: These conditions involve inflammation of the tendons and tendon sheaths in the shoulder, causing pain and limited movement.
• High Cholesterol: This condition involves elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: This complex condition is characterized by persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is often accompanied by other symptoms.
• Painful Urination (Dysuria): This symptom is often associated with urinary tract infections or other conditions affecting the bladder or urethra.
• Dysphagia: This condition involves difficulty swallowing, which can be caused by various factors affecting the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
• Mineral Metabolism Disorders: These disorders affect the body's ability to absorb, utilize, or excrete essential minerals, leading to various health problems.
• Warts: These are benign skin growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
• Intestinal Diverticulosis: This condition involves small pouches that form in the intestinal wall, potentially causing inflammation or infection.
• Strep Throat: This bacterial infection of the throat is characterized by a sore throat, fever, and sometimes difficulty swallowing.

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

• Tuberculosis Screening: This screening helps detect tuberculosis infection, a serious bacterial disease that primarily affects the lungs.
• Dipstick Urinalysis: This quick test analyzes urine for various substances and conditions, providing preliminary information about kidney function and other health issues.
• Hepatitis Screening: This screening helps detect hepatitis infections, which can cause liver inflammation and damage.
• Dyslexia Assessment: This assessment helps identify dyslexia, a learning disability that affects reading and writing skills.
• Chronic Care Management: This service focuses on managing chronic health conditions to improve patient outcomes and prevent complications.
• Rapid Flu Test: This rapid test helps quickly detect influenza (flu) infection.
• Abscess or Cyst Drainage or Aspiration: This procedure involves removing fluid or pus from an abscess or cyst.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: This screening assesses spinal alignment and posture to identify potential problems.
• Psychiatric Evaluation - Child and Adolescent: This evaluation assesses mental health in children and adolescents.
• Smoking Cessation Counseling: This counseling helps patients quit smoking through various strategies and support.
• Wellness Examination: This comprehensive exam focuses on preventive care and overall well-being.
• Strep Test: This test helps detect streptococcal (strep) throat infection.
• Health Screening: This screening assesses various aspects of health to identify potential risks and problems.
• ACTH (Cosyntropin) Stimulation Test: This test evaluates the function of the adrenal glands.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Thomas Ortiz. 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 New Jersey and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners.

Dr. Thomas Ortiz 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 Ortiz can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With the right treatment, patients often see their warts disappear completely, leaving them free to enjoy activities like swimming or wearing sandals without discomfort or embarrassment. This allows for a return to a more confident and carefree lifestyle.
• With careful management, patients find it easier to swallow and enjoy meals again, leading to improved nutrition and a better quality of life. This often allows them to resume social activities and savor the pleasure of eating with family and friends.
• With prompt treatment, patients quickly recover from strep throat, experiencing a significant reduction in pain and discomfort. They are then able to return to their normal activities, such as school or work, feeling much better.
• With consistent treatment, patients experiencing neck strain and whiplash often find significant pain relief and improved range of motion, allowing them to return to their favorite activities, such as gardening or playing with their grandchildren.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Thomas Ortiz, 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 Newark, New Jersey area. It is conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in Newark and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving Newark. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Parking options are generally accessible near the clinic; please inquire when scheduling if you have specific parking needs.

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

• Aetna
  • Plan: APCN Choice, Type: POS II
  • Plan: APCN Open Access Aetna Select
  • Plan: AWH NJ Choice MultiTier - Maximum Savings
  • Plan: AWH NJ Choice MultiTier, Type: POS II
  • Plan: Aetna HMO
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS II
  • Plan: Elect Choice (Open Access), Type: EPO
  • Plan: Managed Choice (Open Access), Type: POS
  • Plan: Open Choice, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
  • Plan: Savings Plus of Metro, NY
  • Plan: Select
  • Plan: Signature Administrators, Type: PPO
• Amerihealth
  • Plan: Hospital Advantage, Type: EPO
  • Plan: Local Value Network POS Plus
  • Plan: Regional Preferred POS Plus
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card High Performance Network, Type: HPN
  • Plan: BlueCard, Type: PPO
  • Plan: High Performance Network - Tiered, Type: HPN
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna HMO
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: BCBS, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Blue High Performance, Type: Network
• Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
  • Plan: Direct Access, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Type: POS
  • Plan: Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Type: PPO
  • Plan: OMNIA - Tier1, Type: EPO
  • Plan: OMNIA, Type: HMO
• Humana
  • Plan: Choice Care Network, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice Care, Type: PPO
  • Plan: Choice, Type: POS
• MVP Health Care
  • Plan: MVP Health Plan, Type: EPO
• MagnaCare
  • Plan: MagnaCare PPO
• Oscar Health
  • Plan: Oscar Circle
• Oxford Health Plans
  • Plan: Freedom
  • Plan: Liberty
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Navigate Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Nexus Open Access
  • Plan: Options, 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 Ortiz 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 Ortiz) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (973) 483-3640 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 Ortiz may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Saint Michael's Medical Center (Newark, NJ)
• Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes Barre, PA)
• University Hospital (Newark, NJ)
• Clara Maass Medical Center (Belleville, NJ)
• Trinitas Regional Medical Center (Elizabeth, NJ)

He earned his medical degree from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in 1981. He completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at Mountainside Hospital (graduated 1982). Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Family Medicine at The Mountainside Hospital (graduated 1984), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

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 Ortiz:

Are services from Dr. Thomas Ortiz typically covered by health insurance in New Jersey?

Dr. Thomas Ortiz, as a Family Physician in New Jersey, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs. However, patients must always verify with their specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Thomas Ortiz is 'in-network' for their plan and to understand their 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. Thomas Ortiz as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, individuals do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Thomas Ortiz to establish care as their Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided he is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Thomas Ortiz 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 Ortiz, 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 if Dr. Thomas Ortiz works in a group practice or medical group? Will I always see Dr. Thomas Ortiz?

Dr. Thomas Ortiz practices as part of a group practice, which often means you have access to a team of healthcare professionals, potentially including other physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), nurses, medical assistants, and sometimes on-site or closely affiliated dietitians or behavioral health specialists. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary Family Physician, Dr. Thomas Ortiz, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. Thomas Ortiz is unavailable (e.g., on vacation or at a conference), you might be offered an appointment with another trusted member of the care team. This collaborative, team-based approach can enhance access to care, provide comprehensive support, and ensure your needs are met promptly. The clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Thomas Ortiz for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Thomas Ortiz?

For every appointment with Dr. Thomas Ortiz, please bring your current health insurance card(s) and a valid photo ID (like a driver's license). It is also very helpful to bring an up-to-date list of all your current medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, along with their dosages and why you take them. If you have them, any relevant medical records, recent test results (blood work, imaging reports from other facilities), or letters from other doctors can be useful, especially if you are seeing Dr. Thomas Ortiz for the first time or for a specific complex problem. Having a written list of your questions or concerns can also help ensure you cover everything you need to during your visit. Be prepared to pay any co-payment or deductible amount as required by your insurance plan at the time of service.

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

Yes, Dr. Thomas Ortiz 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. Thomas Ortiz 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. Thomas Ortiz before scheduling such an appointment.

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

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 [(973) 483-3640] 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.

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

The length of an appointment with Dr. Thomas Ortiz 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 Ortiz. 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.

465 Mount Prospect Ave
Newark NJ 07104
Phone: (973) 483-3640

Dr. Thomas Ortiz, MD is regulated by the New Jersey Statutes, Title 45, Chapter 9 (Medicine and Surgery) in New Jersey and is licensed by The New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1750312450

Registration can typically be verified through The New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners 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 Ortiz 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.