Dr. Walter Kay, DO – Family Physician | Clearwater, FL

Dr. Walter Kay, DO is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Clearwater, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice).

Dr. Walter Kay is currently welcoming new patients to his practice. Please call (727) 796-2444 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. Walter Kay 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. Walter Kay is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of his patients and the Clearwater community, striving to provide accessible and compassionate care for all.

Dr. Walter Kay addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Joint Pain: This encompasses various conditions causing joint discomfort, and treatment depends on proper diagnosis and may include medication, physical therapy, or other interventions.
• Malnutrition: This refers to a deficiency or imbalance of essential nutrients, impacting overall health, and treatment involves dietary adjustments and potentially nutritional supplements.
• Emphysema: This is a chronic lung disease causing shortness of breath, and management focuses on symptom relief and slowing disease progression.
• Difficulty With Walking: This can stem from various underlying causes, requiring a thorough evaluation to determine the appropriate course of action.
• Gastroptosis: This involves the downward displacement of the stomach, and treatment often focuses on lifestyle changes and managing symptoms.
• Proteinuria: This indicates the presence of excessive protein in the urine, often signaling underlying kidney problems requiring investigation and treatment.
• Blood in Urine (Hematuria): This can indicate various health problems, necessitating evaluation to identify the cause and appropriate medical management.
• Diaper Rash: This common skin irritation in infants requires careful management to prevent complications and promote healing.
• Asthma: This chronic respiratory condition requires ongoing management to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations.
• Shortness of Breath: This symptom may indicate several underlying conditions, and a proper diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
• Anxiety: This mental health condition can manifest in various ways, and treatment may involve therapy, medication, or a combination of approaches.
• Liver Damage from Alcohol: This can lead to serious health consequences, and treatment involves addressing alcohol misuse and managing liver function.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This common infection requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: This deficiency can cause various neurological and hematological issues, and treatment involves supplementation.

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

• Alcohol Misuse Screening and Counseling: This service helps identify and address alcohol-related issues, providing support and guidance for healthier choices.
• Tuberculosis Screening: This involves testing for tuberculosis infection, an important preventative measure for public health.
• Herpes Simplex Screening: This screening helps detect herpes simplex virus infections, allowing for timely treatment and management.
• Dementia or Depression Screening: These screenings help identify potential cognitive or mood disorders, leading to earlier intervention and support.
• Blood Allergy Testing: This test identifies allergies to specific blood components, crucial for safe blood transfusions and treatment.
• Cardiac Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging technique allows for assessment of the heart's structure and function.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This blood test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, assessing respiratory and metabolic function.
• Cancer Screening: This involves various tests to detect early signs of cancer, improving the chances of successful treatment.
• Advance Directive End of Life Planning: This assists patients in expressing their wishes regarding end-of-life care and medical decision-making.
• Bone Density Scan: This test measures bone density, helping assess the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Health Screening: This involves a comprehensive assessment of overall health, identifying potential risks and promoting preventative care.
• Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: This addresses various sleep problems, improving sleep quality and overall well-being.
• Wheelchair Evaluation: This service helps determine the appropriate type of wheelchair and provides personalized recommendations.
• Mammography: This imaging technique is used to screen for breast cancer.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Walter Kay. 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 Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Dr. Walter Kay 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. Walter Kay can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With effective management strategies, patients find their anxiety significantly reduced, allowing them to participate more fully in work, social events, and other aspects of daily life. They experience improved sleep, increased energy levels, and a greater sense of overall well-being.
• With proper management, patients find their asthma symptoms significantly reduced, allowing them to breathe easier and fully participate in activities they enjoy, such as playing sports or spending time outdoors. This improved lung function leads to a greater sense of well-being and improved quality of life.
• Through careful monitoring and management, patients with proteinuria often see a significant reduction in urinary protein levels. This allows them to feel healthier and participate more fully in their daily lives.
• With consistent support and lifestyle changes, patients experiencing liver damage from alcohol often see significant improvements in their liver function and overall health. This allows them to regain energy and participate more fully in their lives.

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

• Aetna
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS II
• Anthem
  • Plan: National (BlueCard), Type: PPO
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: HealthyBlue, Type: Advantage
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: LocalPlus
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health 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. Walter Kay 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. Walter Kay) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (727) 796-2444 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. Walter Kay may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Morton Plant Hospital (Clearwater, FL)
• Mease Dunedin Hospital (Dunedin, FL)
• Mease Countryside Hospital (Safety Harbor, FL)

He earned his medical degree from A. T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine.

He is Board Certified in Family Practice/OMT by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Walter Kay:

Are services from Dr. Walter Kay typically covered by health insurance in Florida?

As a Family Physician in Florida, Dr. Walter Kay 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 crucial that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic's office PRIOR to scheduling an appointment to confirm that Dr. Walter Kay is 'in-network' for your plan and to fully 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. Walter Kay as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Walter Kay 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. Walter Kay 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. Walter Kay, 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 (Family Physician) in the US is a physician who has completed residency training and is typically board-certified in Family Medicine (e.g., by the American Board of Family Medicine - ABFM). He are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the US healthcare system, including coordinating with your insurance plan for necessary care.

How long do appointments with Dr. Walter Kay typically last?

Appointment times with Dr. Walter Kay will vary based on the purpose of the visit. For a quick follow-up on a stable issue or a very straightforward problem, 15 minutes might suffice. For annual physicals/wellness visits, new patient consultations, or if you have several health concerns to discuss, Dr. Walter Kay will usually book a longer slot, such as 30-45 minutes, or occasionally more. Always try to be specific about your needs when scheduling your appointment at the clinic so the team can ensure enough time is set aside with Dr. Walter Kay to address your concerns thoroughly and effectively.

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

Preventative care provided by Dr. Walter Kay aims to stop health issues from occurring or to catch them at an early, more manageable stage, following established US guidelines. This includes regular physical exams or wellness visits (many insurance plans cover one per year), vaccinations, screenings for common conditions like certain cancers or heart disease risk factors (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes), and personalized advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking. It’s about being proactive with your health, and Dr. Walter Kay can help guide you in these efforts.

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

If you have several health issues, Dr. Walter Kay is well-equipped to be your central point of care and your 'medical home'. He’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. Walter Kay will work with you and other specialists to manage your health comprehensively and advocate for your best interests.

What does PCP mean and is Dr. Walter Kay one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Walter Kay, as a Family Physician, serves as a PCP for his patients. Your PCP is your main doctor for general health needs, preventative care (like annual physicals and screenings), and is usually the first point of contact for most medical issues, both acute and chronic. He manage a wide range of health concerns and coordinate your overall care, including providing referrals to specialists if needed. Many health insurance plans in the US, especially HMOs, require you to select or be assigned a designated PCP to oversee your care and authorize specialist visits.

What happens if Dr. Walter Kay determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Seeing a medical specialist in the US often requires a referral from your Family Physician/PCP like Dr. Walter Kay, particularly if mandated by your health insurance plan (e.g., HMOs or some POS plans) to ensure coverage at the highest benefit level. After assessing your condition, if Dr. Walter Kay believes specialist care is necessary for diagnosis or management, he will discuss this with you and make the appropriate referral, often suggesting specialists who are known to be in-network with common insurance plans. Our office may assist with the insurance pre-authorization process if required. You will then typically be contacted by the specialist’s office to arrange your appointment. Remember that specialist wait times can vary, so Dr. Walter Kay will continue to manage your care and provide support in the interim.

2724 Park Dr
Clearwater FL 33763
Phone: (727) 796-2444

Dr. Walter Kay, DO is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1013969575

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine 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. Walter Kay 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.