Dr. Tracie Updike, MD – Family Physician | Port Arthur, TX

Dr. Tracie Updike, MD is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Port Arthur, TX. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Texas Medical Board and practices under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act). Dr. Tracie Updike provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Tracie Updike is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (409) 983-1899 to inquire or schedule an appointment. 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.

With over 30 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, she brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients. Dr. Tracie Updike grew up in Orange County, Texas, and her holistic care philosophy emphasizes the importance of a well-balanced diet, at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, consistent medication adherence, daily meditation or prayer, and continuous learning. Dr. Tracie Updike is committed to the ongoing health and well-being of her patients and the Port Arthur community.

Dr. Tracie Updike addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition involves stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort.
• Thyroid Goiter: This is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can sometimes cause symptoms like swelling in the neck.
• Limb Swelling: Swelling in the arms or legs can have various causes, and a physician will evaluate the specific circumstances.
• Low Back Pain: Low back pain is a common ailment with diverse potential causes, ranging from muscle strain to more serious spinal conditions.
• Vertigo: Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness that can significantly impact daily life.
• Heartburn: Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, often associated with acid reflux.
• Dyslipidemia: This refers to abnormal levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease.
• Heart Disease: Heart disease encompasses various conditions affecting the heart, often managed through lifestyle changes and medications.
• Arthritis: Arthritis involves inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): This condition, often called "runner's knee," involves pain around the kneecap.
• Hypothyroidism: This is an underactive thyroid gland, potentially causing fatigue, weight gain, and other symptoms.
• Anemia: Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin.
• Chest Pain: Chest pain can have various causes, ranging from muscle strain to more serious heart conditions, requiring prompt medical evaluation.
• Acute Pharyngitis: This is a sudden inflammation of the throat, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

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

• Urine Pregnancy Test: A simple test to detect pregnancy.
• Diabetic Evaluation: Assessment and management of diabetes mellitus.
• Spinal and Postural Screening: Evaluation of spinal alignment and posture.
• Syphilis Screening: Testing for syphilis infection.
• Hepatitis A Screening: Testing for hepatitis A infection.
• Vaginosis Screening: Testing for bacterial vaginosis.
• VAP Lipid Testing: Testing for various lipid levels in the blood.
• Cardiovascular Stress Test: Evaluation of cardiovascular function under stress.
• Skin Screenings: Examination of the skin for potential issues.
• Lyme Disease Evaluation: Assessment for Lyme disease.
• Dyslexia Assessment: Evaluation for dyslexia.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: Testing for hidden blood in stool.
• Menopause Evaluation and Treatment: Assessment and management of menopause symptoms.
• STD Screening: Testing for sexually transmitted diseases.

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

Dr. Tracie Updike 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. Tracie Updike can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With appropriate treatment, patients quickly find relief from the painful symptoms of acute pharyngitis, allowing them to return to their normal routines and activities, such as work or school, much sooner than expected.
• Patients experiencing dyslipidemia often find that lifestyle changes and medication, when necessary, significantly improve their lipid profiles. This allows them to reduce their risk of heart disease and enjoy a greater sense of well-being and confidence in their health.
• After thorough evaluation and treatment, patients experiencing chest pain often find significant relief and a return to their normal activities, free from the worry and limitations imposed by their discomfort. This allows them to confidently resume daily life and enjoy favorite pastimes without fear.
• With careful management of their GERD, patients often experience significant relief from heartburn and discomfort, allowing them to enjoy meals and social gatherings without worry. This improved digestive health contributes to a better overall quality of life and increased energy levels.

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

• Aetna
• Amerigroup (Wellpoint)
• Anthem
  • Plan: National (BlueCard), Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Cross and Blue Shield
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
  • Plan: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
• Buckeye Community Health Plan
  • Plan: Medicare
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue 2.0
• Cigna
• Coventry Health Care
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care)
• Health Net
  • Plan: Tricare
• Humana
• Midwest Health Plan
  • Plan: Medicaid
• Molina Healthcare
  • Plan: Molina
• MultiPlan
  • Plan: MultiPlan PPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: United Healthcare

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. Tracie Updike 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. Tracie Updike) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (409) 983-1899 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. Tracie Updike may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas (Beaumont, TX)
• CHRISTUS Southeast Texas-Saint Elizabeth (Beaumont, TX)

She earned her medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in 1992. She completed an internship, gaining foundational clinical experience at St Mary's (graduated 1993). Following medical school, she undertook residency training in Family Medicine at San Jacino Meth Hospital (graduated 1995), and University Of Houston Texas Medical Center (graduated 1995), honing skills in comprehensive patient care.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Tracie Updike:

Are services from Dr. Tracie Updike typically covered by health insurance in Texas?

Dr. Tracie Updike, as a Family Physician in Texas, 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 (409) 983-1899 prior to scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. Tracie Updike 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 our office about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Tracie Updike 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. Tracie Updike 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. Tracie Updike, 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. Tracie Updike?

Continuity of care refers to the process where your Family Physician, Dr. Tracie Updike, sees you for your health needs on an ongoing basis, rather than seeing different doctors for different issues. This consistency is valuable because Dr. Tracie Updike becomes familiar with your medical background, your lifestyle, and what's 'normal' for you. This knowledge aids in quicker diagnosis, more effective treatment plans, better chronic disease management, and ensures that your care is well-coordinated, especially important when dealing with multiple specialists or navigating complex insurance plans. It's about having a trusted healthcare partner throughout your life who understands your complete health picture.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Tracie Updike?

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. Tracie Updike's office. Please allow at least 24-72 business hours for these requests to be processed. For certain medications (e.g., controlled substances or medications requiring close monitoring), or if it has been a significant time since your last review with Dr. Tracie Updike, an appointment will likely be required. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization, which our office can help initiate. It is always best to request refills proactively and not wait until you are completely out of medication.

I have multiple health problems (multimorbidity). How does Dr. Tracie Updike handle complex care?

If you have several health issues, Dr. Tracie Updike is well-equipped to be your central point of care and your 'medical home.' She's role includes understanding how your different conditions and their treatments might impact each other, helping you to navigate the US healthcare system (including specialist referrals and insurance considerations for complex care), and ensuring that all aspects of your health are considered in your overall treatment plan. Dr. Tracie Updike will work with you and other specialists to manage your health comprehensively and advocate for your best interests.

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. She 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 she provides, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine and can lead to better health outcomes.

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

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

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Tracie Updike?

Always bring your insurance card(s) and a form of photo ID to your appointment with Dr. Tracie Updike. A complete list of all medications you're currently taking (prescription, non-prescription, natural health products), including dosages, is crucial for Dr. Tracie Updike to review for safety and interactions. For new patients, any past medical records or a health summary you can provide are beneficial. If you monitor things at home (like blood pressure or blood sugar), bringing your logbook and device can be helpful. Preparing a list of your symptoms or questions in advance can also make your appointment more productive. Also, be aware of your insurance co-pay or deductible responsibilities.

2933 Park Plaza Ln
Port Arthur TX 77642
Phone: (409) 983-1899

Dr. Tracie Updike, MD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas Medical Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1629070750

Registration can typically be verified through The Texas 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. Tracie Updike 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.