DR. JOEL DOW STARNES III M.D., PH.D.
NPI 1568670396
Internal Medicine - Nephrology in Lubbock, TX

Q: What is Joel Starnes's NPI number?

The NPI number for Joel Starnes is 1568670396. It was assigned to this individual provider in the NPPES registry on May 17, 2007.

Q: What is Joel Starnes's specialty?

The primary specialty registered for this NPI is Internal Medicine, specializing in Nephrology, with taxonomy code 207RN0300X.

Q: When was this NPI record last updated?

The NPPES record for Joel Starnes was last updated on October 28, 2011. NPI Profile syncs weekly with the NPPES registry data releases published by CMS. This NPI record was last updated 15 years ago. If this record has changed at CMS more recently, you can request an on-demand re-check against the live CMS registry, directly from this page.

Active since May 17, 2007PECOS EnrolledAccepts Medicare Assignment

3506 21ST ST, SUITE 607, LUBBOCK, TX 79410(806) 725-4134(806) 723-7803 Get Directions Write a Review

NPPES record last updated: October 28, 2011. Verified against the NPPES registry weekly; last sync: October 25, 2026.

On this page

About Dr. Joel Dow Starnes Iii M.d., Ph.d. NPPES

Official registry information on file with the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System.

DR. JOEL DOW STARNES III M.D., PH.D. (NPI 1568670396) is an individual nephrology provider in Lubbock, Texas, licensed in Texas (L8965) and active in the NPI registry since May 2007. He is enrolled in Medicare PECOS, is affiliated with Covenant Medical Center, and is a graduate of Texas Tech University Health Science Center School Of Medicine (2002).

NPPES Registry Identity

NPI1568670396

Entity TypeIndividualMale

Primary Taxonomy207RN0300X

Provider Legal NameDR. JOEL DOW STARNES IIICredential: M.D., PH.D.

Location Address3506 21ST ST, SUITE 607Lubbock, TX 79410-1212

Mailing Address3420 22nd PlLubbock, TX 79410-1314 · (806) 725-5844 · Fax (806) 723-6532

Phone(806) 725-4134

Fax(806) 723-7803

Sole ProprietorNo

Medical School CMSTexas Tech University Health Science Center School Of MedicineGraduated 2002

Enumeration DateMay 17, 2007

Last NPPES UpdateOctober 28, 2011

✔ NPI 1568670396 is a valid, active identifier and passes the ISO check-digit test.

Specialties & Licenses

★ Primary SpecialtyInternal Medicine · NephrologyAllopathic & Osteopathic Physicians

Taxonomy Code207RN0300X

License✔ Licensed in TX · L8965

Definition

An internist who treats disorders of the kidney, high blood pressure, fluid and mineral balance and dialysis of body wastes when the kidneys do not function. This specialist consults with surgeons about kidney transplantation.

3506 21ST ST, Lubbock, TX 79410

Open in Google Maps ↗

Other Identifiers 5

Medicaid96851589NM

Other8AA916TX · Blue Cross Blue Sheild

OtherP00671975TX · Railroad Medicare

Medicare PIN8J6328TX

Medicaid186847301TX

Accepted Insurance

The full list of accepted plans is on the Insurance tab. Issuers include Baylor Scott and White Health Plan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare.Insurance ›

Medicare Participation & PECOS CMS

Medicare enrollment, assignment, billing reassignment, and ordering and referring status from CMS.

Medicare Enrollment Status

✔

Enrolled in Medicare and accepts Medicare assignment

Dr. Joel Dow Starnes Iii M.d., Ph.d. is registered in PECOS and agrees to accept the Medicare-approved amount as full payment. Medicare patients are not billed beyond the standard deductible and coinsurance.

PECOS PAC ID4587765045

PECOS Enrollment IDI20070727000351, I20170119002082

Eligible to Order & Refer✔ Part B Labs & Imaging✔ Durable Medical Equipment✔ Home Health Agency✔ Power Mobility DevicesPer the CMS Ordering and Referring file. Eligibility means Medicare pays claims that this provider orders or refers for these categories.

Medicare Billing Reassignments

Medicare enrollment records show Joel Starnes reassigns Medicare billing to 3 organizations. Each organization bills Medicare for the services this provider delivers there; the nearest is listed first.

Hub City Surgery Center, LLC

0.2 mi

Ambulatory Surgical

2232 INDIANA AVE STE 1
Lubbock, TX 79410

Reassigned Medicare billing, Texas enrollment
9 clinicians in this Medicare group

NPI 1114789211 (806) 395-4705

Covenant Medical Group

0.4 mi

Family Medicine

2215 NASHVILLE AVE
Lubbock, TX 79410

Reassigned Medicare billing, New Mexico and Texas enrollments
27 clinicians in this Medicare group

NPI 1376598904 (806) 725-4800

Kidney Disease Associates

2.3 mi

Nephrology

5424 19TH ST # 403
Lubbock, TX 79407

Reassigned Medicare billing, Texas enrollment
7 clinicians in this Medicare group

NPI 1134115124 (806) 368-8782

Source: CMS Revalidation Reassignment List, October 2026 release. Reassignment records can lag staffing changes; confirm a current affiliation with the organization.

Areas of Expertise CMS Part B claims 19

Services this provider delivered to Medicare fee-for-service patients, from the CMS Medicare utilization data. Higher counts generally reflect more experience with a service; care delivered outside Medicare is not included.

Subsequent hospital care with moderate levelof medical decision making, if using time, at least 35 minutes 99232

Follow-up hospital inpatient care involves daily check-ups while you're admitted in the hospital. Typically, a healthcare provider spends about 25 minutes each day reviewing your condition, adjusting treatment if needed, and answering any questions you might have.

509 services143 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit with moderate level of decision making, if using time, 30 minutes or more 99214

This is a routine check-up for patients who have previously visited our clinic. It involves a comprehensive review of your health and any ongoing treatments. The consultation lasts between 30-39 minutes, allowing enough time to discuss any concerns.

157 services79 patients

Dialysis services, 4 or more physician visits per month (20 years or older) 90960

Dialysis is a treatment that filters and purifies your blood using a machine. It helps keep your fluids and electrolytes in balance when the kidneys can't do their job. This service includes 4 or more visits per month with a physician to monitor your health and adjust your treatment as needed.

146 services34 patients

Dialysis services, 2-3 physician visits per month (20 years or older) 90961

Dialysis is a treatment that performs the function of healthy kidneys if they're not working properly. It removes waste and excess fluid from your blood. 2-3 physician visits per month are recommended for monitoring your health and adjusting your treatment as needed. This service is available for those aged 20 years and older.

141 services36 patients

Hemodialysis procedure requiring repeated evaluation 90937

Hemodialysis is a treatment that filters waste and excess fluids from your blood when your kidneys can't do this adequately. It's an ongoing process, requiring regular evaluations to monitor and adjust the treatment for optimal results.

118 services44 patients

Subsequent hospital care with moderate levelof medical decision making, if using time, at least 50 minutes 99233

Follow-up hospital inpatient care per day typically involves a 35-minute check-up by your healthcare provider. This service includes monitoring your health progress, adjusting your treatment plan if needed, and answering any questions you may have about your condition or care.

83 services60 patients

Insertion of needle into vein for collection of blood sample 36415

This procedure involves inserting a small needle into a vein, typically in your arm, to collect a blood sample. It's a quick and simple process to help diagnose or monitor health conditions. You may feel a small prick, but discomfort is minimal.

67 services36 patients

Complete blood cell count (red cells, white blood cell, platelets), automated test and automated differential white blood cell count 85025

A Complete Blood Cell Count is a common test that measures various components of the blood, including red cells (carry oxygen), white cells (fight infection), and platelets (help blood clot). An automated test ensures accuracy. The differential count provides detailed information about white cell types.

64 services34 patients

Kidney function blood test panel 80069

A kidney function blood test panel checks how well your kidneys are working. It measures levels of various substances in your blood, including proteins, electrolytes, and waste products. The results can help detect potential kidney issues early.

63 services34 patients

Manual urinalysis test with examination using microscope, automated 81001

A manual urinalysis test with automated microscopic examination is a lab process that checks your urine for health indicators. It involves a machine scanning your sample to identify any abnormal elements, which can assist in diagnosing various conditions.

62 services33 patients

Initial hospital care with moderate level of medical decision making, if using time, at least 75 minutes 99223

Initial hospital inpatient care per day, typically 70 minutes, refers to the daily medical service provided to patients admitted to the hospital. This includes a comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, treatment plan, and monitoring of your health condition. It ensures your well-being during your hospital stay.

43 services43 patients

Uric acid level, blood 84550

A blood uric acid level test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood. Uric acid is a waste product that your body produces when it breaks down purines, substances found in your body and in certain foods. High levels may lead to gout or kidney stones.

41 services25 patients

Urine microalbumin (protein) level 82043

The urine microalbumin level test measures the amount of a protein called albumin in your urine. This test helps to detect early signs of kidney damage. High levels of albumin may suggest your kidneys aren't functioning properly. It's a simple, non-invasive test that involves providing a urine sample.

35 services27 patients

Creatinine level to test for kidney function or muscle injury 82570

A creatinine level test measures the amount of creatinine in your blood. This substance is a waste product from normal muscle use. Higher levels can indicate possible kidney dysfunction or muscle injury. This test helps monitor kidney health.

35 services27 patients

Dialysis services, 1 physician visit per month (20 years or older) 90962

Dialysis is a treatment that filters and purifies your blood using a machine. It helps keep your fluids and electrolytes in balance when the kidneys canâ€™t do their job. A physician visit once a month ensures your treatment is working effectively and adjusts it if necessary. This service is available for individuals aged 20 years and older.

27 services19 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit with high level of medical decision making, if using time, 40 minutes or more 99215

This service involves a follow-up appointment for existing patients, lasting between 40 to 54 minutes. During this time, your healthcare provider will assess your current health status, discuss any changes or concerns, review your treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have.

27 services25 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit with moderate level of decision making, if using time, 30 minutes or more 99214

19 services17 patients

Vitamin d-3 level 82306

A Vitamin D-3 level test measures the amount of Vitamin D-3, a crucial nutrient, in your body. This test helps identify if your levels are too low or too high. Low levels may lead to bone weakness, while high levels could harm your kidneys. It's a simple blood test.

16 services14 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit with high level of medical decision making, if using time, 40 minutes or more 99215

15 services14 patients

Hospital Affiliations CMS Care Compare 4

Hospitals where this provider delivers care, identified from recent Medicare claims and place-of-service records.

Covenant Medical Center

Acute Care Hospitals · Lubbock, TX

3/5 CMS rating

OwnershipVoluntary non-profit - Private

CMS Certification Number450040

Location3615 19th StreetLubbock, TX 79410 · Lubbock County

Emergency services

Grace Surgical Hospital

Acute Care Hospitals · Lubbock, TX

3/5 CMS rating

OwnershipVoluntary non-profit - Private

CMS Certification Number450162

Location2412 50th StLubbock, TX 79412 · Lubbock County

Emergency services

Covenant Hospital Plainview

Acute Care Hospitals · Plainview, TX

3/5 CMS rating

OwnershipVoluntary non-profit - Private

CMS Certification Number450539

Location2601 Dimmitt RdPlainview, TX 79072 · Hale County

Emergency services Birthing friendly

Covenant Childrens Hospital

Childrens · Lubbock, TX

OwnershipVoluntary non-profit - Private

CMS Certification Number453306

Location4015 22nd PlaceLubbock, TX 79410 · Lubbock County

Emergency services

Physician Visit Costs CMS claims · ZIP area

Typical Medicare office-visit costs in the 79410 ZIP code area, from fee-for-service claims. These are area statistics, not this provider’s prices; actual charges vary by service and coverage.

New Patient

$126.40 typical visit price

range $54.84 – $166.88

Typical copayment $31.60 (range $13.71 – $41.72)

Most-billed visit code 99204

Established Patient

$97.05 typical visit price

range $17.52 – $136.11

Typical copayment $24.26 (range $4.38 – $34.02)

Most-billed visit code 99214

Amounts reflect what Medicare beneficiaries in this ZIP area are typically charged for office visits. Patients with other coverage should check their individual plans.

Referred Medical Equipment & Supplies CMS DME claims 6

Durable medical equipment, devices and supplies this provider ordered from DME suppliers for patients, from Medicare fee-for-service claims.

Tacrolimus, immediate release, oral, 1 mg J7507

Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous · category RX029N

2 suppliers20 claims1,200 services$0.29 avg. paid by Medicare

Mycophenolate mofetil, oral, 250 mg J7517

Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous · category RX029N

2 suppliers16 claims1,350 services$0.20 avg. paid by Medicare

Mycophenolic acid, oral, 180 mg J7518

Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous · category RX029N

4 suppliers44 claims7,860 services$0.99 avg. paid by Medicare

Sirolimus, oral, 1 mg J7520

Treatment-Treatment - Miscellaneous · category RX029N

3 suppliers32 claims780 services$2.64 avg. paid by Medicare

Pharmacy supply fee for oral anti-cancer, oral anti-emetic or immunosuppressive drug(s); for the first prescription in a 30-day period Q0511

Treatment-Chemotherapy · category RH012N

6 suppliers58 claims58 services$18.62 avg. paid by Medicare

Pharmacy supply fee for oral anti-cancer, oral anti-emetic or immunosuppressive drug(s); for a subsequent prescription in a 30-day period Q0512

Treatment-Chemotherapy · category RH012N

6 suppliers54 claims55 services$12.39 avg. paid by Medicare

Dollar amounts are the average Medicare paid the supplier per service. They are not the cost to the patient.

Other Providers at the Same Location NPPES 20

Providers registered at the same practice address, or within the immediate area, according to the NPPES registry.

DR. COURTNEY HOLT COWDEN III M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery (Sports Medicine)

3506 21ST ST, STE 507
LUBBOCK, TX 79410

Lubbock County (806) 725-4805

MR. FRED GREGORY SEBASTIAN IV PA-C

Physician Assistant

3506 21ST ST, SUITE 507
LUBBOCK, TX 79410

Lubbock County (806) 725-4805

BRENDA S MORROW MD

Internal Medicine

3506 21ST ST, SUITE 602
LUBBOCK, TX 79410

Lubbock County (806) 722-3600

SHARRONDA RICHAWN BRADFORD FNP

Nurse Practitioner (Family)

3506 21ST ST, SUITE605
LUBBOCK, TX 79410

Lubbock County (806) 725-4130

AMY D'ANN GORDON ACNP

Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care)

3506 21ST ST, SUITE 607
LUBBOCK, TX 79410

Lubbock County (806) 725-4134

HARRY EUGENE HALL MD

Orthopaedic Surgery

3506 21ST ST, SUITE 202
LUBBOCK, TX 79410

Lubbock County (806) 725-4810

BOLKAR E SAHINLER, M.D., PA

Pain Medicine (Interventional Pain Medicine)

3506 21ST ST, SUITE 507
LUBBOCK, TX 79410

Lubbock County (806) 796-3000

CAITLIN SARAH BLAIR BSN, MSN, FNP-C

Nurse Practitioner (Family)

3506 21ST ST, STE 607
LUBBOCK, TX 79410

Lubbock County (806) 370-6186

Frequently Asked Questions NPPES & CMS

Common questions about this NPI record, answered from the official NPPES registry and CMS datasets shown on this page.

What is Joel Starnes's NPI number?

The NPI number for Joel Starnes is 1568670396. It was assigned to this individual provider in the NPPES registry on May 17, 2007.

Where is Joel Starnes located?

Joel Starnes practices at 3506 21st St Suite 607, Lubbock, TX 79410. The listed phone number is (806) 725-4134.

What is Joel Starnes's specialty?

The primary specialty registered for this NPI is Internal Medicine, specializing in Nephrology, with taxonomy code 207RN0300X.

Is Joel Starnes enrolled in Medicare?

Yes. Joel Starnes is registered in the Medicare PECOS system and accepts Medicare assignment, which means accepting the Medicare-approved amount as payment in full for covered services.

Which organizations bill Medicare for Joel Starnes's services?

According to the CMS Revalidation Reassignment List (October 2026 release), Joel Starnes reassigns Medicare benefits to 3 organizations: Hub City Surgery Center, LLC (Lubbock, TX), Covenant Medical Group (Lubbock, TX) and Kidney Disease Associates (Lubbock, TX). Each reassignment is filed with Medicare on form CMS-855R, signed by both the clinician and the organization, and lets the organization bill Medicare and receive payment for Joel Starnes's services. Reassignment records can lag staffing changes; confirm current arrangements with the organization.

What insurance does Joel Starnes accept?

Health plans from Baylor Scott and White Health Plan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas and UnitedHealthcare list Joel Starnes as in-network in at least one marketplace plan. Coverage varies by plan and year; verify with the insurer or the provider before a visit.

Is Joel Starnes affiliated with any hospitals?

According to CMS data, Joel Starnes is affiliated with Covenant Medical Center, Grace Surgical Hospital, Covenant Hospital Plainview and Covenant Childrens Hospital.

When was this NPI record last updated?

The NPPES record for Joel Starnes was last updated on October 28, 2011. NPI Profile syncs weekly with the NPPES registry data releases published by CMS. This NPI record was last updated 15 years ago. If this record has changed at CMS more recently, you can request an on-demand re-check against the live CMS registry, directly from this page.