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United Healthcare Status

We were not able to come to an agreement with UHC.

(If you are interested in how and why that occurred, please see the end of this message).

However, the main purpose of this message is to let you know that we value the relationship that we have built over time.  Here’s how you can continue seeing us as your healthcare provider. For the details click here United Healthcare FAQ.

The short version is that every aspect of your visit going forward with us such as labs and specialist referrals would be in-network.  The only out of network service would be the actual visit with our provider.  And we have discounted our rate to accommodate just such a situation.  You may be able to get a portion of the visit reimbursed by UHC, or if you have a high deductible, you would have been paying that amount anyway whether we were in-network or out of network.

The bottom line is that we value our relationship with you and hope that it can continue under this arrangement.

 

Addendum: UHC/DFM Issues:

We have been in-network with UHC since our inception in 2001.  There have been many problems with our relationship with UHC over the years as many of you remember.  UHC leads the way in denying member services which we fight for behind the scenes – denials for prescription drugs and Xray studies.  Almost every request results in a Prior Authorization. These requests are inefficient and require nurses and doctors having to call UHC and being placed on hold.  One nurse just this week had to call 4 different phone trees, spending hours of her time, and still the patient’s insulin was denied.

Coming through a tough pandemic, serving on the frontlines, absorbing higher supply and labor costs, we counted on our insurance partners to support quality healthcare.

BCBS, Cigna, and Aetna stepped up.

UHC did not.  UHC has proposed to reimburse us much less for the same services, and they want to lock in that low rate for many years.  They will not budge and have not negotiated with us for over 2 months.

Many independent doctors are reassessing their relationship with UHC.  Charlotte Eye Ear Nose and Throat among many other groups may go out of network soon.  For more information on UHC and its predatory practices towards NC physicians and its customers, you may visit www.NCWakeUp.com.

So that’s why we had no choice but to leave the UHC network.  We hope that they will revisit our relationship as we are always open to discussion.

Flu shots and new Covid-19 Boosters available!

Now is a good time to get your flu shot.  We have FluzoneFluBlok, and HD flu depending on your age.  Instead of getting the one-size-fits-all approach of a pharmacy, get your flu shot from nurses specially trained in giving you the shot that best suits you! Just call and we will get you scheduled! 

And for certain individuals, we highly recommend getting the new bivalent Moderna or Pfizer covid booster.  We are administering these boosters on Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s, and Thursday’s. Anyone 5 and older can get the booster.  We strongly recommend it for adults, especially those who are elderly, or immunocompromised and have not had Covid in the past 2 months. If you have not had Covid at this point, we feel that you should consider the booster to prevent a serious case or long Covid.  (Either Moderna or Pfizer can be given, but we recommend Moderna for most people because mixing the vaccines seems to provide better protection). 

We are happy to answer questions.  Just let us know! 

Boosters For All

Yes, you need to get that booster! And we have it here for you. Just give us a call.

Happy Holidays to all. We are excited that the CDC has now officially approved SARS-Cov2 boosters for ALL persons age 18 and up.

We have the Pfizer and Moderna boosters in stock. Please call (704) 892-5454 to schedule your booster. Instead of the chain pharmacy, we feel that it is best to get the booster from trained nurses in your medical home here at Davidson Family Medicine. We will add the booster to your vaccine card at the time of vaccination.

Details: If you have had the second Pfizer or Moderna shot at least 6 months ago or a Johnson and Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago, you are now encouraged to get the booster.

For those having received J&J, we would recommend either a Moderna or Pfizer booster as the dose of mRNA is about the same. This mRNA vaccine will augment the J&J vaccine’s effectiveness.

For those having received a Pfizer or Moderna primary series, we recommend either Pfizer or Moderna as a booster. Staying with your original vaccine, however, will give you an idea of any possible side effects as these will be similar to your second vaccine’s side effects if any.

The protection from the booster will probably last at least 7-9 months.

Please let us know if you have any questions.  We look forward to seeing you!

Sincerely,

Davidson Family Medicine

Pfizer Booster Available For High-Risk And Senior Patients

Davidson Family Medicine is pleased to announce that we are scheduling booster shots for patients needing a Pfizer booster.  This Pfizer booster is for certain patients who are at least 6 months from their second Pfizer.  As of now, this is limited to Pfizer and to those patients who are 65+ or have an underlying health condition such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, or with a suppressed immune system, and people ages 19 through 64 with occupational exposure to SARS-CoV-2, for example teachers, healthcare, and essential workers..  Just call our office at (704) 892-5454 to schedule.

Continue reading “Pfizer Booster Available For High-Risk And Senior Patients”

The Doctor is In: Dr. Euphemia Mu, Dermatology, Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology

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Dr. Euphemia Mu


Dr. Euphemia Mu, Dermatology, Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology


 

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Our very own Dr. Kingsley had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Euphemia Mu to discuss the importance of skincare and regular visits with your healthcare provider.  Request an appointment online using our secure form to meet with one of our providers!

Give us the skinny about yourself. Training, practice location, clinical interests. Life outside of medicine.

I grew up in Charlotte, NC, received my bachelor’s degree from Princeton University, and attended medical school at Johns Hopkins University. After my residency at the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology at New York University, I completed my Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology fellowship with Dr. Desiree Ratner, a nationally renowned dermatologic surgeon in Manhattan. I currently work as a Mohs surgeon and dermatologist at Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Cornelius and Denver, NC. I practice medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology and specializes in treating high-risk skin cancers. Outside of medicine, I enjoy running, dancing, and watching nostalgic movies.

The sunscreen recalls are downright nerve-wracking, please help clear up the confusion.

The reason there have been sunscreen recalls is because in May of 2021 Valisure (a watchdog independent lab) reported benzene in trace amounts in a small number of aerosol sunscreens. Benzene is used in the production of petroleum and plastic, and we can be exposed to benzene routinely through gasoline, pollution, and cigarette smoke. Concerningly, benzene is a known carcinogen associated with cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.  It was recently detected in certain aerosol sunscreens due to a supply chain issue that led to contamination of certain batches of products. Notably, this is not an issue with sunscreen active ingredients. Johnson & Johnson recalled a number of Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreen sprays that were found to be potentially at risk of exposure. Using sunscreen lotions and powders are deemed safe, effective, and recommended for protection against sun damage by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

What are important ingredients to look for in sunscreen? What are things to dodge?

The two most important characteristics to look for in sunscreens are: broad-spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB) and has a SPF 30 or higher. If you are active, a sunscreen with water resistance will also be more effective. When outside, sunscreen should be re-applied every two hours.

There are also two different types of sunscreens:

Chemical sunscreens work like a sponge that absorbs the sun’s rays. They contain one of the following active ingredients: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. These tend to be easier to rub in without leaving a white residue.

Physical sunscreens work like a shield and deflect the sun’s rays. They contain the active ingredients: zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. They tend to leave more of a white residue on the skin but are theoretically safer to use on children as there is less risk of topical absorption.

5 bottles of sunscreen with yellow background

Besides the obvious that sunscreen protects against skin cancer, are there other additional benefits? Should I be using a moisturizer with SPF daily even when I am in the office and not likely to see a ray of sunlight?

In addition to protecting against skin cancer, sunscreen also helps protect against premature photoaging. UV radiation can cause both short-term sunburns and long-term collagen and DNA damage leading to visible wrinkles, melasma, keratoses, skin texture changes, and pigmentation. Dermatologists recommend using a moisturizer with SPF daily to protect against unexpected, intermittent sun exposure… even walking to the parking lot can lead to intense, direct sun especially during the summer! Protect your skin by covering up, staying in the shade, and finding a sunscreen you enjoy!

For the love of sunscreen and sand, I re-apply sunscreen multiple times to my children’s eye area and they always seem to get a little more sun in these areas. Any tricks doc?

Most sunscreens are safe to use near the eyes, however, this can be a delicate and sensitive area! Mineral sunscreens using zinc or titanium dioxide are good choices for sensitive skin as they won’t sting the eyes in sweaty conditions. Stick sunscreens work well around the eyes for a less messy application. Tinted mineral powders and cream concealers that have SPF ratings are also specifically made for use around the eyes. If sunscreen gets in the eye, it’s not dangerous but flush the eye with water as soon as possible. Broad-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses are also important tools for helping shade the face and eyes from the sun.

Little girl with hat sunglasses and sunscreen

Common parent question especially for families in sunny NC – I have a 4-month-old and we are finally breaking out of the house and going to the beach. Sunscreen labels state it is for use in 6 months and older. Ahh – what do I do?

Sunscreen use in children younger than six months of age is discouraged given the lack of safety studies in this youngest age group. Instead, parents are encouraged to protect babies from direct sun rays for prolonged (greater than 20 minutes) periods of time or during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm). Take advantage of the cute and fashionable sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses that are now available! Umbrellas, canopies, and hoods on strollers can also provide important shade and sun protection.

The annual skin checks – why are they important to carve out of my busy schedule? My husband offered to do the skin check, but seriously, what consists of a good skin check by a dermatology provider? I’ve heard that every time my friend goes, they are always doing a biopsy that comes back benign, how do I avoid being sliced and diced?

Skin cancer is both the most common and most preventable type of cancer diagnosed in the US. Annual full skin exams are therefore an important part of recommended routine healthcare screening, similar to dental or eye exams. The AAD recommends a full-body skin exam once a year with a board-certified dermatologist to screen for skin cancer. Those with blonde or red hair, light eye colors, skin that freckles or burns easily, a family history of skin cancer, a personal history of blistering sunburns, unusual moles, history of tanning bed use, or suspicious or changing moles are at a higher chance for developing skin cancer and are especially encouraged to get regular skin exams. A full skin exam involves changing into a gown and having a dermatologist examine the skin from head to toe, including the places that are difficult to monitor on yourself including the top of the scalp, the bottom of the feet, and middle of the back. Be sure to bring up any changing, bleeding, dark, or symptomatic lesions to your dermatologist! If there is a spot suspicious for skin cancer, your dermatologist may consider doing a biopsy to help diagnose the lesion under a microscope. As with all medical care, you are your own greatest advocate. Don’t hesitate to let your dermatologist know if you prefer to clinically monitor a spot instead of a biopsy, especially if the spot has been stable for many years. Partner with your dermatologist to promote lifelong good skin health!

I want to age gracefully and minimize the impact of life and kids – what should I be putting on my face daily to minimize those fine lines and wrinkles? There are soooo many products out there!

Good question – there are so many skin products available that it can be overwhelming to figure out what’s necessary. In dermatology, the three products that are considered ‘musts’ for preventative skincare are: a Vitamin C serum, a retinoid cream, and a moisturizer with a sunscreen. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to brighten, fights inflammation, and is required for collagen synthesis. Retinoids are derivatives of Vitamin A that help even skin tone, decrease pore size, improve texture, and decrease fine wrinkling. It is one of the most well-studied ingredients in dermatology for its resurfacing and rejuvenating properties! Use of both Vitamin C and retinoids requires a few weeks for your skin to adapt, so start these products slowly and build up as tolerated to make this part of your regular skincare routine! Finally, as mentioned before, moisturizer with a sunscreen is imperative to prevent premature skin aging and sun damage. New formulations avoid the white chalky appearance formerly associated with sunscreens, and find a combination that makes you look and feel your best!

Woman applying cream for wrinkles

Holy mole – a new dark spot! Do I rush to my doctor or do I sweat it out? For how long? What things do I need to be concerned about when a new spot makes its appearance?

There are numerous common and benign reasons for having a dark spot on the skin including freckles, moles, keratoses, melasma, and post-inflammatory pigmentation. It is common for new moles to appear before and during our 20s, but moles that appear later in life should be viewed more cautiously. Any mole that changes, is asymmetric in color or shape, is larger than a pencil eraser, or is otherwise unlike other lesions on the skin should be checked at the earliest opportunity by your primary care physician and/or dermatologist. Any time there is a dark spot on the skin or nails, it is important to make sure the lesion is not melanoma, which is one of the least common but most fatal forms of skin cancer. Melanoma is diagnosed on skin biopsy and early detection leads to an excellent cure rate. It’s never too soon or too late to take great care of your skin!

 

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COVID Information

Davidson Family Medicine is pleased to offer accurate and convenient RAPID Covid-19 testing for our established patients.  Results within 15 minutes.

This is a simple and painless front-of-the-nose test performed by our staff at our office.  There is no need to wait in line at a CVS Minute Clinic, Urgent Care, or Emergency Room.

Examples of when to get tested:

  • Development of symptoms of Covid-19 (within 5 days of symptom onset): fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, change in ability to taste and smell
  • Exposure to a person later known to have Covid-19
  • Asymptomatic testing needed for employer or travel

This test is highly accurate.  It is one of only 2 antigen tests authorized by the FDA for emergency use for detection of Covid-19 antigen particles.

Accuracy of BD Veritor Rapid Covid Test

Information from the FDA About the BD Veritor Covid Test

Simply call our office to schedule.  We may require a brief virtual visit with one of our clinicians to ensure appropriateness of testing.

(We will collect any copays and otherwise will file insurance for you.  This testing is covered by most insurance plans.)

Flu shots are here!

In addition to the regular flu vaccine, we also have the extra protective flu vaccine recommended for those 65 and over.

Davidson Family Medicine will file your insurance.

To get your flu vaccine administered by trained medical staff that you know and trust, call in at 704-892-5454.

Stay healthy this flu season and get your flu vaccine.

 

Flu shots are here!

In addition to the regular flu vaccine, we also have the extra protective flu vaccine recommended for those 65 and over.  

Davidson Family Medicine will file your insurance.

To get your flu vaccine administered by trained medical staff that you know and trust, call in at 704-892-5454.

Stay healthy this flu season and get your flu vaccine.

Welcome Dr. Sam Hughes

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Sam Hughes to our practice! Dr. Hughes is a Davidson College graduate and earned his medical degree from Wake Forest School of Medicine, where he also completed his residency.

He enjoys the diversity of family medicine, particularly working with all ages and focusing on preventive care. Sam’s favorite activities include hiking, biking, and spending time with his wife and yellow lab.

Visit our website, davidsonfamilymedicine.com or call (704) 892-5454 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hughes.

Happy 4th of July!!

In observance  of Independence Day, Davidson Family Medicine will be closed on Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4th; we will re-open on Monday, July 6th at 8 a.m.