Michelle Kalousek – Family Physician | Hoover, AL

Michelle Kalousek is a Family Physician practicing at Ascension St. Vincent's Primary Care Hoover in Hoover, AL. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Michelle Kalousek is registered with The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and practices under the Code of Alabama, Title 34, Chapter 24 (Physicians and Other Practitioners of Healing Arts).

Dr. Michelle Kalousek is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (205) 733-7110 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.

Dr. Michelle Kalousek's approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and collaborative physician-patient relationships. She listens to understand you and your health concerns, taking the time to get to know you and your family's health history and create a personalized care plan. Dr. Michelle Kalousek provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Michelle Kalousek is committed to providing the highest quality of care and improving the health and well-being of her patients and the community.

Dr. Michelle Kalousek addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Acrokeratoelastoidosis of Costa: Small, raised growths may appear on the fingers and toes, sometimes resembling warts.
• Hand Eczema: This condition is characterized by a rash and itchy skin on the hands.
• Nevus of Ota: This is a harmless skin condition that may be noticeable and cause cosmetic concerns.
• Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, or Poison Sumac Poisoning: An itchy rash develops after contact with these plants.
• Gypsy Moth Caterpillar Poisoning: Exposure to these caterpillars can cause skin irritation, swelling, or breathing difficulties.
• Pemphigus: This condition affects the skin and mucous membranes, causing painful lesions.
• Facial Irregularities: This refers to asymmetries or imbalances in facial features.

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

• Liver Test: This blood test assesses liver function and can detect damage or disease.
• Male Condom Counseling: This service educates patients on proper condom use to prevent STIs and pregnancy.
• Mammotome^® Breast Biopsy: This procedure diagnoses breast lumps or suspicious areas.
• Multiple Sclerosis Therapy: This involves medications and therapies to improve quality of life for MS patients.
• Carotid Ultrasound: This test uses ultrasound to detect plaque buildup in the arteries leading to the brain.
• Allergy Testing: This helps identify specific allergens causing symptoms.
• Calcium Score: This test uses a CT scan to check for calcium buildup in the heart's arteries, estimating heart attack risk.

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

Dr. Michelle Kalousek 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. Michelle Kalousek can make a difference in patients' lives:

• Patients with facial irregularities found relief and renewed confidence after receiving personalized care, enabling them to comfortably participate in social events and pursue their passions without self-consciousness. This improved their overall quality of life and sense of well-being.
• After receiving treatment, patients quickly find relief from the irritating rash, allowing them to comfortably return to their outdoor activities without the persistent itch and discomfort. Their skin heals, and they can enjoy the outdoors again.
• With proper treatment, patients experience significant relief from the dryness, cracking, and irritation of their hand eczema, allowing them to comfortably return to everyday activities like gardening or playing with their grandchildren. Their improved hand health restores confidence and reduces the daily discomfort.

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

• Aetna
  • Plan: Elect Choice (Open Access), Type: EPO
  • Plan: Managed Choice (Open Access), Type: POS
  • Plan: Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Plan: Blue Card, Type: PPO
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama
  • Plan: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Type: PPO
• Cigna
  • Plan: Cigna PPO
  • Plan: Open Access Plus
• Curative
  • Plan: Curative EPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO
  • Plan: Curative PPO Plus
• First Health
  • Plan: First Health (Coventry Health Care), Type: PPO
• UnitedHealthCare
  • Plan: Choice Plus, Type: POS
  • Plan: Medica Choice
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: HMO
  • Plan: Navigate, Type: POS
  • Plan: Nexus Open Access
  • Plan: Options, 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. Michelle Kalousek 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. Michelle Kalousek) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (205) 733-7110 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. Michelle Kalousek has completed all necessary medical education and holds current licensure. Specifics can be discussed or verified with The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Michelle Kalousek:

Are services from Dr. Michelle Kalousek typically covered by health insurance in Alabama?

Dr. Michelle Kalousek, as a Family Physician in Alabama, 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 Ascension St. Vincent's Primary Care Hoover's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Michelle Kalousek 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. Ask the clinic about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

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

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

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 manage acute illnesses, oversee care for long-term chronic diseases, provide routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling (often part of annual wellness visits or Medicare Annual Wellness Visits for seniors), administer vaccinations, and ensure you get access to specialized medical services through referrals, often navigating insurance requirements. The continuity of care she provide, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine and can lead to better health outcomes.

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. Michelle Kalousek recommends you consult your insurance plan documents or contact your insurer's member services for details specific to your policy.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when Ascension St. Vincent's Primary Care Hoover is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency (such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, or major trauma), please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ER) immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until Ascension St. Vincent's Primary Care Hoover reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like Ascension St. Vincent's Primary Care Hoover, may have an on-call physician or an answering service that can direct you to appropriate care or provide advice for urgent patient queries after hours; please check our clinic voicemail [(205) 733-7110] or website for specific after-hours instructions. Your insurance plan may also offer a 24/7 nurse advice line that can help you determine the best course of action.

Can Dr. Michelle Kalousek help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. Michelle Kalousek plays a crucial role in mental and behavioral healthcare. She 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. Michelle Kalousek 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. Michelle Kalousek can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

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

Dr. Michelle Kalousek practices as part of Ascension St. Vincent's Primary Care Hoover, 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. Michelle Kalousek, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. Michelle Kalousek 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. Ascension St. Vincent's Primary Care Hoover will always strive to have you see Dr. Michelle Kalousek for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Michelle Kalousek?

An initial new patient visit with Dr. Michelle Kalousek usually involves a thorough discussion about your health and the completion of intake forms. Be prepared to share your personal and family medical history, a complete list of current medications with dosages, any ongoing health issues, and your overall lifestyle. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. Dr. Michelle Kalousek will want to understand your health needs, concerns, and what you expect from your Family Physician/PCP. Depending on the clinic's policy and time allotted, some physicians may perform parts of a physical exam during this first visit, or a separate preventive visit/physical exam might be scheduled for a later date. This initial consultation is key to Dr. Michelle Kalousek understanding your health baseline.

Ascension St. Vincent's Primary Care Hoover
1870 Chace Dr Ste 160
Hoover AL 35244
Phone: (205) 733-7110

Michelle Kalousek is regulated by the Code of Alabama, Title 34, Chapter 24 (Physicians and Other Practitioners of Healing Arts) in Alabama and is licensed by The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1013503127

Registration can typically be verified through The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners 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. Michelle Kalousek 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.