Katelynn O’Brien, PA-C – Family Physician | Philadelphia, PA

Katelynn O'Brien, PA-C is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Philadelphia, PA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine and practices under the Pennsylvania Statutes, Title 63, Chapter 15 (Medical Practice Act of 1985).

Dr. Katelynn PA-C is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (856) 553-5248 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.

Dr. Katelynn PA-C is a family medicine specialist in Philadelphia, PA, serving patients of all ages. She is affiliated with medical facilities such as Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital. She is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships to ensure the best possible outcomes. Dr. Katelynn PA-C provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Katelynn PA-C is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.

Dr. Katelynn PA-C addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Morphea: It's a chronic skin condition that can affect many parts of the body, creating noticeable skin changes.
• Skin Laxity: This condition involves loose and saggy skin.
• Ringworm of the Scalp: This contagious infection leads to circular, reddish patches on the scalp.
• Ringworm of the Beard: This is a fungal infection causing a rash on the beard area.
• Inflamed Seborrheic Keratosis: This involves inflammation and irritation of a seborrheic keratosis.
• Primary Hyperhidrosis: This condition causes excessive sweating significantly impacting daily life.
• Heat Rash: This is a red, bumpy skin reaction due to heat and moisture.

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

• Blood Allergy Testing: This blood test helps determine specific allergies.
• Acute Stroke Management: This includes emergency care and ongoing management after a stroke.
• Pharmacologic Nuclear Stress Test: This heart test uses medication to simulate exercise and a special scan to check blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Diabetic Limb Salvage: This involves saving a limb threatened by diabetes complications.
• Amniocentesis: This procedure collects amniotic fluid for genetic testing during pregnancy.
• Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography: This test uses medication and ultrasound to assess heart function during exercise.
• Digital Tomography: This uses specialized X-ray technology to create detailed images for diagnosis.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Katelynn PA-C. 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 Pennsylvania and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine.

Dr. Katelynn PA-C 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. Katelynn PA-C can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients experiencing skin laxity find renewed confidence after implementing a personalized treatment plan, often resuming activities they previously avoided due to self-consciousness about their appearance. This improved self-image contributes to a more fulfilling social life and overall well-being.
• Patients find relief from excessive sweating, restoring their confidence and allowing them to participate more fully in social activities and daily life without the constant worry of embarrassing perspiration. This improved quality of life enables them to pursue hobbies and relationships more freely.
• With appropriate treatment, patients experience a reduction in inflammation and irritation from their seborrheic keratosis, allowing them to comfortably resume their daily activities without discomfort. They find relief from the bothersome symptoms and can enjoy a better quality of life.

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

• Assurant Health
  • Plan: Devon Health Services
• Cigna
• Government Employees Health Association (GEHA)
  • Plan: GEHA
• Health Net
  • Plan: Tricare
• Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
  • Plan: Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Humana
• MultiPlan
  • Plan: MultiPlan PPO
• QualCare
• UPMC
• US Family Health Plan
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: United Healthcare
• WellPoint
• Workers Compensation

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. Katelynn PA-C 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. Katelynn PA-C) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (856) 553-5248 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. Katelynn PA-C may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Jefferson Stratford Hospital (Stratford, NJ)
• Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (Philadelphia, PA)
• Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital (Cherry Hill, NJ)
• Jefferson Washington Township Hospital (Turnersville, NJ)

Dr. Katelynn PA-C has completed all necessary medical education and holds current licensure. Specifics can be discussed or verified with The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Katelynn PA-C:

Are services from Dr. Katelynn PA-C typically covered by health insurance in Pennsylvania?

As a Family Physician in Pennsylvania, Dr. Katelynn PA-C 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 (856) 553-5248 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Katelynn PA-C 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. Katelynn PA-C as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Katelynn PA-C 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. Katelynn PA-C 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. Katelynn PA-C, 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 does it mean for Dr. Katelynn PA-C to be 'in-network' or 'out-of-network' with my health insurance?

'In-network' means Dr. Katelynn PA-C (or the clinic she practices at) has a contract with your health insurance company. This contract typically includes agreed-upon (often discounted) rates for services. Seeing an in-network provider usually results in lower out-of-pocket costs for you, such as lower co-pays and co-insurance, once your deductible is met. 'Out-of-network' means there's no contract between the provider/clinic and your insurer. If you see an out-of-network provider, your insurance may cover a much smaller portion of the bill, or none at all, and you could be responsible for the difference between what the insurer pays and what the doctor charges (this is sometimes called 'balance billing'). It is always best to verify Dr. Katelynn PA-C's network status directly with your insurance plan by calling the member services number on your card or checking their online provider directory AND confirming with our clinic before your appointment.

I have multiple health problems (multimorbidity). How does Dr. Katelynn PA-C handle complex care?

As a Family Physician, Dr. Katelynn PA-C is specifically trained to manage patients with multiple health problems (multimorbidity) and complex care needs. She will take a holistic approach, considering how your various conditions interact and how treatments for one might affect another. Dr. Katelynn PA-C will help prioritize your health concerns, coordinate care with any specialists involved (ensuring referrals are appropriate, results are integrated, and treatment plans are aligned), manage your medications to avoid harmful interactions and polypharmacy (reviewing for necessity and effectiveness), and develop a comprehensive, patient-centered care plan that aligns with your overall health goals, values, and quality of life. Open communication about all your conditions, medications, and concerns is key to this process.

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. Katelynn PA-C recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a Family Physician like Dr. Katelynn PA-C?

Continuity of care refers to the process where your Family Physician, Dr. Katelynn PA-C, sees you for your health needs on an ongoing basis, rather than seeing different doctors for different issues. This consistency is valuable because Dr. Katelynn PA-C 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 can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in Pennsylvania who is accepting new patients and takes my insurance?

First, check your health insurance plan's 'Find a Doctor' or 'Provider Directory' tool (often 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 Pennsylvania Medical Board website may sometimes have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or 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. It can be challenging, so be persistent. Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling the first appointment.

How often should I see Dr. Katelynn PA-C for a check-up or physical exam?

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

833 Chestnut St Ste 301
Philadelphia PA 19107
Phone: (856) 553-5248

Katelynn O'Brien, PA-C is regulated by the Pennsylvania Statutes, Title 63, Chapter 15 (Medical Practice Act of 1985) in Pennsylvania and is licensed by The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1487293031

Registration can typically be verified through The Pennsylvania State 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. Katelynn PA-C 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.