KAREN CLARK. MD
Many women consider their gynecologist to be their main physician, especially during the years between young adulthood and the menopausal transition. Strong bonds form between patients and their gynecologists in the process of addressing the many personal health issues that arise during this time. A gynecologist does much more than just the annual pelvic examination and Pap smear. Gynecologists are trained to be women’s healthcare specialists and as such routinely address many wellness issues in addition to gynecologic concerns.
Dr. Clark has close to 20 years of experience helping patients with general gynecological concerns and women’s wellness issues. In addition, she is subspecialty trained in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and has spent years assisting her patients in managing various hormonal challenges, such as PMS, menopause, decreased libido, abnormal periods, and infertility. If management of a condition requires the use of hormones, she prescribes primarily bio-identical hormones: hormones that are biologically identical to those made by the human female body. Many bio-identical hormones are available commercially and covered by insurance benefits, but Dr. Clark also works closely with local compounding pharmacists when unique combinations of hormones are needed by a patient. Dr. Clark also recognizes that many women prefer to avoid or cannot use hormonal treatments, and she is experienced in managing many issues without the use of hormones. In addition to her expertise in managing hormonal issues, she is also experienced in the evaluation and management of vulvar (genital) skin abnormalities and vulvar pain disorders.
Dr. Clark is a strong advocate of providing patients with comprehensive information on which to base their medical decisions, and enjoys partnering with each patient to achieve an individualized care plan. When appropriate, she can work with local physicians as well as local integrative medicine practitioners. Dr. Clark understands that addressing a woman’s health needs takes time, and she is pleased to be able to offer her patients extended office visits so that their needs can be ascertained and addressed.
Professional Background
Dr. Clark is a board certified gynecologist. She graduated from the University of Alabama School of Medicine, and completed her obstetrics and gynecology residency at the University of Florida College of Medicine. Following residency, she served a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship at Duke University. She is also board-certified in obstetrics but is currently focused on non-surgical gynecological care only. In addition, Dr. Clark has a Master of Healthcare Administration degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is recognized by the North American Menopause Society as a Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP).
Appointments, Fees, and Insurance Information
Appointments: Tuesday – Friday: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
In network with Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Conventry/Wellpath (except Duke Basic or Duke Select).
Patients with insurance plans other than those listed above pay in full at the time of the appointment. However, the Center will file your insurance claim on your behalf. Any out-of-network reimbursement will be mailed directly to you from your insurance company. Patients concerned about appointment coverage and costs should check with their insurance companies prior to their appointment. Labs done onsite can be billed directly to any insurance company through Quest Diagnostics.
Cash payers can expect fees from $160-$200+ depending on the complexity of the visit with labs an additional cost.