Melissa Hitchcock, FNP – Family Physician | Monett, MO

Melissa Hitchcock, FNP is a Family Physician practicing at her clinic in Monett, MO. Dr. Melissa FNP is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts and practices under the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 334 (Physicians and Surgeons, etc.).

Dr. Melissa FNP is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (417) 354-1580 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. Melissa FNP serves patients of all ages and is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. She provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Melissa FNP looks forward to supporting the health and well-being of her community and helping her patients achieve their health goals.

• Exfoliative Dermatitis: This is a severe skin condition causing widespread redness, scaling, and peeling of the skin.
• Noduloulcerative Basal Cell Carcinoma: This is a type of skin cancer that appears as a raised, lumpy sore.
• Toenail Fungal Infection: This condition affects one or more toenails.
• Chemical Burn - Skin: This is a skin injury caused by contact with a harmful chemical.
• Skin Allergy: This involves rashes, hives, or swelling due to an allergic reaction.
• Granuloma Annulare: This skin condition causes raised, reddish bumps or patches.
• Pemphigus Vulgaris: This rare autoimmune disorder causes painful blisters and sores in the mouth and on the skin.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Melissa FNP 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.

• Interferon Therapy: This treatment uses interferon, a naturally occurring protein, to help fight certain diseases.
• Body Fat Analysis: This analysis helps understand body composition and track progress towards weight goals.
• Venous and Arterial Thrombolysis: This procedure breaks up blood clots blocking blood flow in veins and arteries.
• Medical Nutrition Therapy: This provides dietary advice and guidance for health management or goals.
• Surgery, Trauma: This addresses injuries caused by trauma, such as accidents or falls.
• Hepatitis B Virus Screening: This test screens for the hepatitis B virus in the blood.
• Laryngeal Videostroboscopy: This is a video recording of the vocal cords to evaluate vibration and identify potential issues.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Melissa FNP. 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 Missouri and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

Dr. Melissa FNP 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. Melissa FNP can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With prompt treatment, patients with chemical burns on their skin experienced significant healing and pain reduction. This allowed them to return to their normal activities and enjoy life without the constant discomfort.
• With early and effective treatment, patients find their noduloulcerative basal cell carcinoma successfully managed, leading to the healing of the affected area and a return to enjoying favorite outdoor activities without worry.
• Patients experiencing toenail fungal infections often find relief through effective treatment, leading to clearer, healthier nails. This allows them to confidently wear sandals and participate in activities they enjoy without discomfort or embarrassment.

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

• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO
  • Plan: Blue Preferred Plus, Type: POS
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• MultiPlan
  • Plan: MultiPlan 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. Melissa FNP 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. Melissa FNP) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (417) 354-1580 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.

Dr. Melissa FNP has completed all necessary medical education and holds current licensure. Specifics can be discussed or verified with The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

Are services from Dr. Melissa FNP typically covered by health insurance in Missouri?

Dr. Melissa FNP, as a Family Physician in Missouri, 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 at (417) 354-1580 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Melissa FNP is ‘in-network’ for your plan and to fully understand your 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. Melissa FNP as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Melissa FNP 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. Melissa FNP 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. Melissa FNP, 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 PCP mean and is Dr. Melissa FNP one?

PCP stands for Primary Care Physician. Yes, Dr. Melissa FNP, as a Family Physician, serves as a PCP for her 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. She manages a wide range of health concerns and coordinates 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 does it mean for Dr. Melissa FNP to be ‘in-network’ or ‘out-of-network’ with my health insurance?

‘In-network’ means Dr. Melissa FNP (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. Melissa FNP’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.

What if Dr. Melissa FNP works in a group practice or medical group? Will I always see Dr. Melissa FNP?

Dr. Melissa FNP 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. Melissa FNP, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. Melissa FNP 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. Melissa FNP for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

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

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

What does ‘preventative care’ involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Melissa FNP in the US?

Preventative care with Dr. Melissa FNP focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious, often guided by recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), CDC, and other national bodies like the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (annual physicals or wellness visits, often covered by insurance without co-pay), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests/HPV, mammograms, colon cancer screening, lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals), immunizations (flu shots, shingles, pneumococcal, Tdap), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes and obesity, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early, and promote long-term health.

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.

1000 E Highway 60
Monett MO 65708
Phone: (417) 354-1580

Melissa Hitchcock, FNP is regulated by the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 334 (Physicians and Surgeons, etc.) in Missouri and is licensed by The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1912270323

Registration can typically be verified through The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts 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. Melissa FNP 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.