KAREN GAYL EKWUEME M.D.
NPI 1720183890
Family Medicine in Chattanooga, TN

NPI Status: Active since September 14, 2006

Contact Information

1521 GUNBARREL RD # 103
CHATTANOOGA, TN
ZIP 37421
Phone: (423) 531-0911
Fax: (423) 531-0912

Get Directions Write a Review

  • Individual
  • Female
  • Family Medicine
  • Accepts Insurance
  • PECOS Enrolled

About KAREN EKWUEME

This page provides the complete NPI Profile along with additional information for Karen Ekwueme, a primary care provider established in Chattanooga, Tennessee with a medical specialization in Family Medicine. The healthcare provider is registered in the NPI registry with number 1720183890 assigned on September 2006. The practitioner's primary taxonomy code is 207Q00000X with license number 66165 (TN). The provider is registered as an individual and her NPI record was last updated 2 years ago.

NPI
1720183890
Provider Name
KAREN GAYL EKWUEME M.D.
Other Name
KAREN GAYL KING
Other Name Type
Former Name (1)
Gender
Female
Entity Type
Individual
Location Address
1521 GUNBARREL RD # 103 CHATTANOOGA, TN 37421
Location Phone
(423) 531-0911
Location Fax
(423) 531-0912
Mailing Address
1025 PEERLESS XING NW CLEVELAND, TN 37312
Mailing Phone
(423) 476-5990
Mailing Fax
(423) 531-0912
Is Sole Proprietor?
No
Enumeration Date
09-14-2006
Last Update Date
08-30-2024
Code Navigator

A primary care provider (PCP) like Karen Ekwueme sees people with common medical problems. The primary care provider might be a doctor, physician assistant, nurse practitioner or clinic that are usually involved in your long-term care. A PCP might provide preventive care, treat common medical conditions, identify urgent medical problems and refer you to specialists when necessary. Primary care is usually provided in an outpatient facility but if you are admitted to a hospital your PCP may assist in your care. The most common medical conditions seen by primary care providers are: hypertension, upper respiratory tract infections, depression or anxiety, back pain, arthritis, dermatitis, diabetes, urinary tract infections, etc .

Location Map

Specialty - Primary Taxonomy

The NPI enumerator requires providers to submit at least one taxonomy code. A taxonomy code is a unique 10-character code that describes the healthcare provider type, classification, and the area of specialization. There could be only one primary taxonomy code per NPI record. For individual NPIs the license data is associated to the taxonomy code.

Classification

Family Medicine

Taxonomy Code
207Q00000X
Type
Allopathic & Osteopathic Physicians
License No.
66165
License State
TN
Taxonomy Description
Family Medicine is the medical specialty which is concerned with the total health care of the individual and the family. It is the specialty in breadth which integrates the biological, clinical, and behavioral sciences. The scope of family medicine is not limited by age, sex, organ system, or disease entity.

Insurance Plans Accepted

According to publicly available information the provider might be accepting the following health plans from these health insurance companies:

  • SoloCare Bronze EPO $8500 DED HSA 10004 - EPO
  • SoloCare Exp Bronze EPO $9500 DED 10015 - EPO
  • SoloCare Gold EPO $1500 DED 10010 - EPO
  • SoloCare Silver EPO $5000 DED 10014 - EPO
  • SoloCare Silver EPO $6500 DED 10013 - EPO
  • SoloCare Standard Exp Bronze EPO $7500 DED 10008 - EPO
  • SoloCare Standard Gold EPO $2000 DED 10006 - EPO
  • SoloCare Standard Platinum EPO $0 DED 10005 - EPO
  • SoloCare Standard Silver EPO $6000 DED 10007 - EPO
  • BlueCross B16S $50 PCP Copay + $0 virtual care from Teladoc Health� - EPO
  • BlueCross G08S $30 PCP Copay + $0 virtual care from Teladoc Health � - EPO
  • BlueCross S26S $40 PCP Copay + $0 virtual care from Teladoc Health� - EPO

Specific plan information not avaialable, please contact the provider to verify if your insurance plan is accepted.

Specific plan information not avaialable, please contact the provider to verify if your insurance plan is accepted.

*Please verify directly with this provider to make sure your insurance plan is currently accepted.

Additional Identifiers

The NPI Enumerator encourages providers to submit additional identifiers with their NPI application although the submission of this information is optional. The additional identifier(s) section includes other numbers or codes currently or formerly used as an identifier for the provider by other public healthcare entities. The identifiers may include UPIN, NSC, OSCAR, DEA, Medicaid State or PIN identification numbers.

Identifier Type / Code Identifier State Identifier Issuer
61036OTHER (01)WIDEAN HEALTH SYSTEMS, INC

Medicare Participation & PECOS Enrollment Status

Karen Ekwueme is enrolled in PECOS and is eligible to order or refer health care services for Medicare patients. The provider is eligible to order or refer: Part B Clinical Laboratory and Imaging, Durable Medical Equipment (DME), a Home Health Agency (HHA) and Power Mobility Devices.

What is PECOS?
PECOS is the online Medicare enrollment management system or Provider, Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System. The PECOS system is a database of providers who have registered with CMS as providers or suppliers. PECOS is the primary source of information about verified Medicare professionals. Providers that want to participate in this program need to enroll in PECOS with their NPI number to avoid denied claims.

  • Is the provider registered in PECOS? Yes

  • Eligible to Order or Refer Part B Clinical Laboratory and Imaging: Yes

  • Eligible to Order or Refer Durable Medical Equipment (DMEPOS): Yes

  • Eligible to Order or Refer a Home Health Agency (HHA): Yes

  • Eligible to Order or Refer Power Mobility Devices: Yes

Areas of Expertise

The following services and procedures, recently provided to Medicare patients, illustrate the range of care this provider offers. This list reflects the variety of services available to all patients visiting the practice and is based on 2022 Medicare dataset. In general, the more frequently a provider treats specific conditions or performs particular procedures, the more experienced they become in addressing similar patient needs. The provider has delivered many of the services listed below to Medicare patients. Please note that this list does not include services provided to patients who are not covered by Medicare.

Automated urinalysis test

An automated urinalysis test is a routine examination that checks your urine for various substances. It can help identify potential health issues such as kidney problems or diabetes. The test uses a machine to analyze a small urine sample, providing quick and accurate results.

This service was performed 24 times for 24 patients

Detection test by multiplex amplified probe technique for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (sars-cov-2) (covid-19) and influenza virus types a and b

This test detects the presence of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and Influenza types A and B in your body. It uses a method called the multiplex amplified probe technique to amplify and identify specific virus genes. It helps in early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

This service was performed 25 times for 24 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 10-19 minutes

This is a routine check-up for patients who have previously seen the doctor. During this 10-19 minute visit, the doctor will review your health status, discuss any concerns, and manage ongoing treatments or medications. It's a chance to ensure your health is on track.

This service was performed 12 times for 11 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 20-29 minutes

This is a routine visit for patients who have already been seen by the healthcare provider. During this approximately 20-29 minute appointment, your health status will be evaluated and any necessary treatments or tests will be discussed. It's a chance to address any health concerns you may have.

This service was performed 74 times for 72 patients

Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes

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.

This service was performed 30 times for 30 patients

Infusion into a vein for therapy, prevention, or diagnosis, 1 hour or less

This is a procedure where a medical professional inserts a small tube into your vein to deliver medication, nutrients, or fluids directly into your bloodstream. This can be for treatment, prevention, or diagnosis. The process typically takes less than an hour.

This service was performed 29 times for 17 patients

Initial nursing facility visit per day, typically 35 minutes

An initial nursing facility visit per day is a service where a healthcare professional spends about 35 minutes assessing a patient's health status. This includes reviewing medical history, conducting a physical exam, and developing a care plan based on the patient's needs.

This service was performed 22 times for 22 patients

Initial nursing facility visit per day, typically 45 minutes

An initial nursing facility visit is your first meeting with your healthcare team at a nursing facility. Lasting typically 45 minutes, this appointment involves a comprehensive health assessment and the creation of your personalized care plan. It's a crucial step to ensure your health and well-being.

This service was performed 15 times for 15 patients

Injection, ceftriaxone sodium, per 250 mg

Ceftriaxone sodium is an antibiotic injection used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Each injection contains 250 mg of the medicine. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria in your body.

This service was performed 114 times for 11 patients

Insertion of needle into vein for collection of blood sample

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.

This service was performed 13 times for 12 patients

New patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-44 minutes

This service involves an initial office or outpatient visit for a new patient. The healthcare professional will spend 30-44 minutes understanding your health history, current issues, and discussing possible treatment plans. It's a comprehensive evaluation to start your healthcare journey.

This service was performed 16 times for 16 patients

Routine electrocardiogram (ecg) using at least 12 leads with interpretation and report

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a non-invasive test that records your heart's electrical activity. Using 12 leads attached to your body, it captures data to help identify heart conditions. A doctor interprets the results and provides a report.

This service was performed 15 times for 15 patients

Urinalysis, manual test

A urinalysis is a simple, non-invasive test that checks the urine for various elements such as sugar, protein, and signs of infection. It can help detect many common conditions, including kidney disease and diabetes. The manual test involves a lab technician examining a urine sample.

This service was performed 14 times for 14 patients

Physician Visit Costs

The pricing information below displays the copayment minimum, maximum and average amount that patients under Medicare are charged when visiting this provider as a new or established patient. Please keep in mind that these prices are just for reference purposes, and the actual prices charged by the provider might be different.

For patients covered under private health plans the prices below are also useful as healthcare pricing for private insurance is usually established as a function of Medicare prices. Private insurance covered patients should check their individual plans to determine the exact pricing.

The prices below reflect the costs for new and established patients in the 37421 ZIP code area.

New Patients Visit Costs *

The most utilized procedure code for new patients office visits is 99203

  • Average New Patient Price $81.53
  • Minimum New Patient Price $52.64
  • Maximum New Patient Price $160.89
  • Average New Patient Copayment $20.38
  • Minimum New Patient Copayment $13.16
  • Maximum New Patient Copayment $40.22

Established Patients Visit Costs *

The most utilized procedure code for established patients office visits is 99214

  • Average Established Patient Price $93.6
  • Minimum Established Patient Price $16.72
  • Maximum Established Patient Price $131.41
  • Average Established Patient Copayment $23.4
  • Minimum Established Patient Copayment $4.18
  • Maximum Established Patient Copayment $32.85

* The physician office visit costs information is generated by statistical analysis of similar providers in the same geographical area. The pricing information above IS NOT the amount charged by this provider.

Reviews for KAREN GAYL EKWUEME M.D.

There are currently no reviews for this provider. Be the first person to share your experience with this provider by filling out our review form. Your insights are appreciated and will help others make informed decisions.

NPI NPI Number Validation

How NPI Validation Works

The NPI validation process uses the ISO-standard Luhn algorithm, a mathematical "handshake", to ensure that a provider's 10-digit ID is authentic and free of common typing errors.

To verify the NPI 1720183890, we treat the final digit (0) as the Check Digit—the target answer we need to reach. The process begins by taking the first nine digits and adding a constant value of 24, which accounts for the "80840" prefix required for all U.S. health identifiers. We then double every other digit starting from the right and sum the individual digits of those results together. For this specific NPI, that total comes to 70. The final step is to find the difference between that total and the next multiple of ten (70 - 70 = 0).

Digit-by-digit view

Use the first nine digits for the calculation. Starting from the right, double every other digit. The last digit is the check digit and is not part of the calculation.

Pos 1
1
Doubled → 2
Pos 2
7
Unchanged
Pos 3
2
Doubled → 4
Pos 4
0
Unchanged
Pos 5
1
Doubled → 2
Pos 6
8
Unchanged
Pos 7
3
Doubled → 6
Pos 8
8
Unchanged
Pos 9
9
Doubled → 18 → 1 + 8
Check
0
Target digit
Regular digit Doubled digit Check digit

Step 1: Double every other digit from the right

Starting with the rightmost digit of the first nine digits, double every other value. If doubling creates a two-digit number, add those digits together.

1 → 2 2 → 4 1 → 2 3 → 6 9 → 18 → 9

Step 2: Add all digits plus the NPI constant

Add the transformed values, the unchanged digits, and the constant 24.

2 + 7 + 4 + 0 + 2 + 8 + 6 + 8 + 1 + 8 + 24 = 70

Step 3: Find the amount needed to reach the next multiple of 10

The next multiple of ten after 70 is 70. The difference is the calculated check digit.

70 - 70 = 0
This NPI is valid
The calculated check digit is 0, which matches the last digit of 1720183890.

Frequently Asked Questions

The NPI number assigned to this healthcare provider is 1720183890, enumerated as an "individual" on September 14, 2006.

The provider is located at 1521 GUNBARREL RD # 103 CHATTANOOGA, TN 37421 and the phone number is (423) 531-0911.

Family Medicine with taxonomy code 207Q00000X.

The provider might be accepting Accepts: Alliant Health Plans, Inc., BlueCross BlueShield. Please consult your insurance carrier or call the provider to verify.