Tara Brown, FNP – Family Physician | Lavonia, GA

Tara Brown, FNP is a Family Physician practicing at Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Lavonia Clinic in Lavonia, GA. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. Dr. Tara FNP is registered with The Georgia Composite Medical Board and practices under the Georgia Code, Title 43, Chapter 34 (Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Others).

Dr. Tara FNP is currently welcoming new patients to her practice. Please call (706) 356-1072 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.

Tara Brown is a provider with Northeast Georgia Physicians Group specializing in Family Medicine. Dr. Tara FNP obtained her clinical education from Kennesaw State University and she is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She is committed to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Tara FNP provides consultations primarily in English. Dr. Tara FNP is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of her patients and the community she serves.

Dr. Tara FNP addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Annular Pustular Psoriasis: This type of psoriasis causes itchy, pus-filled blisters in rings on the skin.
• Nail Infection: This involves an infection in a fingernail or toenail.
• Leg and Foot Ulcers: These are sores or wounds on the legs and/or feet that aren't healing.
• Chronic Urticaria: This is a long-lasting skin condition causing itchy welts.
• Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, or Poison Sumac Poisoning: This involves a skin reaction from poison ivy, oak, or sumac.
• Face Skin Lesions: These are spots, bumps, or changes on the face skin.
• Rash: This is a skin irritation or discoloration causing concern.

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

Dr. Tara FNP offers a range of services to meet her patients' healthcare needs, such as:

• Botox® for Chronic Migraine: Botox injections reduce the frequency and severity of chronic migraine headaches.
• Revision of Arteriovenous Shunt for Renal Dialysis: This involves repairing the tube connecting blood to the dialysis machine.
• VAP Lipid Testing: This test measures cholesterol and other lipids to assess heart health risk.
• Adult Immunization: This involves receiving recommended vaccines to boost immunity.
• Targeted Ultrasound: This focused ultrasound exam uses sound waves to create detailed images of a specific body area.
• Pain Medication Management: This involves creating a plan to control pain using medication.
• Rh Incompatibility Screening: This screening helps determine the risk of blood incompatibility between a mother and her baby.

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

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

• Patients experiencing facial skin lesions found relief and improved confidence after receiving appropriate treatment, allowing them to comfortably resume social activities and feel more at ease in their daily lives. Their improved skin health boosted their self-esteem and overall well-being.
• With proper treatment, patients find relief from the discomfort of their rash, experiencing a reduction in itching and inflammation. This allows them to comfortably participate in their favorite activities and enjoy life without the constant worry of skin irritation.
• With proper wound care, patients experience significant healing of their leg and foot ulcers, allowing them to comfortably walk and participate in activities they enjoy once again. Many find renewed mobility and a greatly improved quality of life.

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

Dr. Tara FNP and the clinic may participate in various health insurance plans common in Georgia. 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. Tara 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. Tara FNP) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (706) 356-1072 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. Tara FNP may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville (Gainesville, GA)

Dr. Tara FNP has completed all necessary medical education and holds current licensure. Specifics can be discussed or verified with The Georgia Composite Medical Board.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Tara FNP:

Are services from Dr. Tara FNP typically covered by health insurance in Georgia?

Dr. Tara FNP, as a Family Physician in Georgia, 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 Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Lavonia Clinic's office prior to an appointment to confirm that Dr. Tara FNP is 'in-network' for your plan and to understand your 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. Tara FNP as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Tara 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. Tara 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. Tara 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 'preventative care' involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Tara FNP in the US?

With Dr. Tara FNP, preventative care means taking proactive steps to maintain your health and prevent future illness. This encompasses services like scheduled immunizations (flu, pneumonia, shingles, etc.), screenings for diseases you might be at risk for (based on USPSTF recommendations for your age, family history, etc.), discussions about lifestyle modifications to reduce risks (e.g., related to nutrition, physical activity, substance use), and regular health assessments to monitor your overall status. Dr. Tara FNP works with you to create a personalized prevention plan, many components of which may be covered by your health insurance without cost-sharing.

Does Dr. Tara FNP at Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Lavonia Clinic offer telehealth (virtual video or phone) appointments?

Yes, Dr. Tara FNP at Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Lavonia 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. Tara FNP 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. Tara FNP before scheduling such an appointment.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Tara FNP?

Your first appointment with Dr. Tara FNP is an important opportunity to establish care. She will likely review your detailed medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, hospitalizations, allergies, immunizations, and family health history. she will also want to discuss your current health concerns, any medications you are taking (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, supplements - bring the bottles or an accurate list), and your lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol/substance use). A basic physical examination may be performed. This visit is also a chance for you to ask questions about Dr. Tara FNP's practice style and for her to explain clinic policies (e.g., appointment scheduling, prescription refills, communication methods, insurance billing procedures, missed appointment fees). You will likely need to provide your insurance card(s), a photo ID, and complete new patient paperwork. The main goal is to gather comprehensive baseline information for optimal ongoing care and to begin building a strong physician-patient relationship.

Can Dr. Tara FNP help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your Family Physician, Dr. Tara FNP 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. Tara FNP 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. Tara FNP can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions, often working in an integrated care model.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Lavonia Clinic 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 Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Lavonia Clinic reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Lavonia Clinic, 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 [(706) 356-1072] 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.

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.

Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Lavonia Clinic
12192 Augusta Rd
Lavonia GA 30553
Phone: (706) 356-1072

Tara Brown, FNP is regulated by the Georgia Code, Title 43, Chapter 34 (Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Others) in Georgia and is licensed by The Georgia Composite Medical Board.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1952728651

Registration can typically be verified through The Georgia Composite Medical Board 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. Tara 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.