Dr. Wayne Larson, MD – Family Physician | Lakewood, WA

Dr. Wayne Larson, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in Lakewood, WA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. To confirm if Dr. Wayne Larson is currently accepting new patients, please contact (253) 581-2261.

Dr. Wayne Larson, MD is a family medicine physician in Lakewood, WA and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine in 2005. With over 15 years of dedicated experience in family medicine, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients. He is registered with The Washington Medical Commission and practices under the Revised Code of Washington, Title 18, Chapter 18.71 (Physicians).

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. Wayne Larson serves patients of all ages and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Wayne Larson provides consultations primarily in English. He is dedicated to the ongoing health and well-being of his patients and the Lakewood community.

Dr. Wayne Larson addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Dermatological Disorders: Skin problems, like rashes, acne, or eczema.
• Lichen Planus: Lichen planus is a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, flat-topped bumps or lesions.
• Eyelid Disorders: Problems with your eyelids, like swelling, drooping, or infections.
• Neck Skin Laxity: Loose and saggy neck skin.
• Ringworm of the Beard: A fungal infection causing a rash on your beard area.
• Syphilitic Skin Disorder: A skin rash or sores caused by syphilis infection.
• Extra Nipples: The presence of extra nipples, also known as supernumerary nipples.

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

• Venipuncture: A blood sample will be collected.
• Acute Stroke Management: Emergency care and ongoing management after a stroke.
• Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection: Removal of lymph nodes in the pelvis to check for cancer.
• B-Scan Ultrasound: A B-scan ultrasound creates detailed pictures of the inside of your eye to help diagnose eye problems.
• Embolectomy, Thrombectomy, or Vessel Exploration: A procedure to clear a blocked artery to improve blood flow.
• Revision of Arteriovenous Shunt for Renal Dialysis: Improving the connection used during kidney dialysis treatments.
• Hemoglobin Testing: This test measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood, which carries oxygen throughout your body.

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

• Patients experiencing neck skin laxity often regain a renewed sense of confidence after treatment, feeling more comfortable and self-assured in their appearance. This allows them to fully participate in social activities and enjoy life without self-consciousness.
• Patients experiencing the persistent itch and discomfort of lichen planus often find relief through a comprehensive treatment plan, allowing them to return to enjoying favorite activities without the constant distraction of their skin condition. This renewed comfort improves their overall quality of life and allows them to participate more fully in social and recreational pursuits.
• With proper treatment, patients often see a significant reduction in their skin irritation and discomfort, allowing them to confidently participate in social activities and enjoy life to the fullest. Clearer skin and improved confidence contribute to a better overall quality of life.
• Patients often find reassurance and understanding after a simple examination of their extra nipples, allowing them to confidently address any concerns and comfortably continue with their daily lives. Many are able to move forward without feeling self-conscious about this common congenital variation.

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

Dr. Wayne Larson and the clinic may participate in various health insurance plans common in Washington. Please contact our office or your insurer for details.

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. Wayne Larson 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. Wayne Larson) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (253) 581-2261 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.

Information on hospital affiliations can be obtained by contacting the clinic.

He earned his medical degree from University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine in 2005.

Are services from Dr. Wayne Larson typically covered by health insurance in Washington?

Dr. Wayne Larson, as a Family Physician in Washington, 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. Wayne Larson 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. Wayne Larson as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Wayne Larson 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. Wayne Larson 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. Wayne Larson, 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.

Can Dr. Wayne Larson help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. Wayne Larson plays a crucial role in mental and behavioral healthcare. He is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress-related issues, sleep problems, or concerns about substance use. Dr. Wayne Larson can provide an initial assessment (often using screening tools), offer supportive counseling and lifestyle strategies, prescribe medication if appropriate and indicated (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications), and make referrals to specialized mental health services such as psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists (LCSW, LPC, MFT), or community mental health programs if more intensive or specialized care (like specific types of psychotherapy) is needed. Dr. Wayne Larson can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

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

Yes, Dr. Wayne Larson 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. Wayne Larson 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. Wayne Larson before scheduling such an appointment.

How long do appointments with Dr. Wayne Larson typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Wayne Larson 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. Wayne Larson. 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.

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

Preventative care provided by Dr. Wayne Larson 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. Itu2019s about being proactive with your health, and Dr. Wayne Larson can help guide you in these efforts.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Wayne Larson?

Continuity of care means having an ongoing, long-term relationship with your Family Physician, Dr. Wayne Larson, and his care team. It's important because it allows Dr. Wayne Larson to get to know you, your comprehensive health history, your values, your family/social context, and how you respond to treatments. This deep understanding helps Dr. Wayne Larson make more informed diagnoses, tailor treatments to your specific needs, coordinate your care more effectively with specialists (navigating insurance referrals if needed), and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. Studies show that good continuity of care with a PCP is linked to better health outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, increased adherence to medical advice, and more appropriate use of healthcare resources (e.g., fewer unnecessary ER visits and hospitalizations).

6210 75th St W Ste A200
Lakewood WA 98499
Phone: (253) 581-2261

Dr. Wayne Larson, 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): 1679792881

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. Wayne Larson 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.