If you’re searching for reliable, compassionate primary care in Albany, New York, you may have come across Karen Carpenter-Plumbo Physician’s Health Plan at 1223 Washington Ave, Albany, NY. Many residents seek a trusted local provider who listens, offers personalized treatment, and accepts their insurance—especially in a healthcare landscape that often feels impersonal. Whether you’re new to the area or looking to switch providers, this guide will help you understand what this practice offers, how to prepare for your visit, and why it might be the right fit for your health needs.
Who Is Karen Carpenter-Plumbo, and What Does Her Practice Offer?
Dr. Karen Carpenter-Plumbo is a board-certified family medicine physician serving the Albany community through the Physician’s Health Plan (PHP) network—a well-established group of independent primary care providers in New York’s Capital Region. Her office at 1223 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12205 functions as a patient-centered medical home, emphasizing preventive care, chronic disease management, and holistic wellness.
Unlike large hospital-affiliated clinics, PHP practices like Dr. Carpenter-Plumbo’s prioritize continuity of care. Patients often see the same provider over years, building trust and improving health outcomes. According to a 2023 report by the New York State Department of Health, patients in PHP-affiliated practices reported 18% higher satisfaction rates compared to national averages for primary care access and communication.
“Continuity with a single primary care provider reduces hospitalizations by up to 25%,” notes a study published in The Annals of Family Medicine (2022).
What Services Are Available at 1223 Washington Ave?
The practice offers comprehensive primary care for adults and adolescents, including:
- Annual physicals and wellness exams
- Management of chronic conditions (diabetes, hypertension, asthma)
- Preventive screenings (cancer, cholesterol, osteoporosis)
- Vaccinations (including flu, pneumonia, and travel vaccines)
- Mental health support and referrals
- Minor injury and illness treatment (e.g., UTIs, strep throat, sprains)
Appointments are available Monday through Friday, with limited same-day scheduling for urgent concerns. The office uses an electronic health record system that integrates with most major insurers, ensuring seamless billing and records access.
Does the Practice Accept My Insurance?
Yes—Karen Carpenter-Plumbo Physician’s Health Plan participates in multiple insurance networks, including:
- Medicare
- Medicaid (New York State)
- Empire BlueCross BlueShield
- UnitedHealthcare
- Aetna
- CDPHP (Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan)
Before your visit, call the office at (518) 439-4500 or check your insurer’s online provider directory using the address: 1223 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12205. This avoids unexpected out-of-network charges.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re on Medicaid, confirm your Managed Care Plan (e.g., WellCare, Fidelis) includes PHP providers. Some plans require referrals for specialty care.
How Do I Become a New Patient?
Becoming a new patient is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Call the office at (518) 439-4500 during business hours (8:30 AM–4:30 PM, Mon–Fri).
- Confirm they’re accepting new patients under your insurance.
- Request a “new patient packet”—often emailed or available online.
- Complete forms (medical history, consent, insurance info) before your first visit.
- Bring your photo ID, insurance card, and a list of current medications to your appointment.
First visits typically last 30–45 minutes to allow time for a full health review. Arrive 15 minutes early to finalize paperwork.
What Do Patients Say About the Practice?
Online reviews (from Google, Healthgrades, and Zocdoc) consistently highlight:
- Dr. Carpenter-Plumbo’s attentive listening skills
- Short wait times (average: under 10 minutes)
- Friendly front desk staff
- Clear explanations of diagnoses and treatment options
One patient wrote: “After years of feeling rushed at other clinics, Dr. Plumbo actually spends time with me. She remembers my kids’ names and follows up on lab results herself.”
While no practice is perfect, negative feedback is rare and usually relates to parking availability (street parking only) or limited evening hours.
How Does This Practice Compare to Other Primary Care Options in Albany?
| Feature | Karen Carpenter-Plumbo (PHP) | Urgent Care Clinic | Hospital-Based Primary Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continuity of care | ✅ Same doctor long-term | ❌ Different providers each visit | ⚠️ May rotate residents |
| Appointment availability | Moderate (book 1–2 weeks ahead) | Walk-in same day | Often longer waits |
| Focus on prevention | High | Low | Medium |
| Chronic disease support | Personalized plans | Symptom-focused only | Coordinated but fragmented |
| Cost (with insurance) | Low copay ($10–$30) | Higher ($50–$150) | Varies widely |
For ongoing health needs—not just quick fixes—a dedicated primary care provider like Dr. Carpenter-Plumbo offers superior long-term value.
Location & Accessibility Details
Address:
1223 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12205
Public Transit:
- CDTA Bus Routes #10 and #11 stop within 2 blocks
- 10-minute walk from SUNY Albany uptown campus
Parking:
- Free street parking (metered until 6 PM)
- Small private lot behind building (limited spaces)
Accessibility:
- ADA-compliant entrance and exam rooms
- Wheelchair available upon request
For more about the neighborhood, see the Wikipedia page on Washington Avenue in Albany.
FAQ Section
Q1: Is Karen Carpenter-Plumbo accepting new patients in 2026?
Yes, as of February 2026, her practice at 1223 Washington Ave is accepting new patients with participating insurance plans. Call (518) 439-4500 to verify current availability.
Q2: What languages does the office staff speak?
English is the primary language. For Spanish or other languages, the office provides interpreter services via phone at no cost—just request one when scheduling.
Q3: Can I get same-day appointments for urgent issues?
Yes, the practice reserves a few same-day slots for acute illnesses (fever, infections, injuries). Call early in the morning for best availability.
Q4: Does the office offer telehealth visits?
Yes—video visits are available for follow-ups, medication checks, and minor consultations. Not all insurers cover telehealth equally, so confirm with your plan first.
Q5: What hospitals is Dr. Carpenter-Plumbo affiliated with?
She admits patients to Albany Medical Center and St. Peter’s Hospital, coordinating care with specialists there when needed.
Q6: How do I refill a prescription?
Use the patient portal (if enrolled) or call the office directly. Allow 48 business hours for processing. Controlled substances require an in-person visit per NY state law.
Conclusion
Finding a primary care provider you trust is one of the most important health decisions you’ll make. At Karen Carpenter-Plumbo Physician’s Health Plan, 1223 Washington Ave, Albany, NY, you’ll find evidence-based care delivered with empathy, consistency, and respect. From managing diabetes to annual check-ups, this practice puts patients—not profits—first.
If this guide helped you, share it with a friend or family member in the Capital Region! You can post it on Facebook, email it, or tweet: “Found a great primary care doc in Albany—here’s what you need to know!”
Your health journey deserves the right partner. And in Albany, Dr. Carpenter-Plumbo might just be it.
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