How Do I Find Doctors That Accept Medicaid?

Navigating the healthcare system can be tricky, especially when figuring out insurance coverage. Are you looking for doctors that accept Medicaid and offering quality care? thebootdoctor.net is here to guide you through the process, ensuring you find the right medical professionals who accept Medicaid. This comprehensive guide offers insights, resources, and step-by-step instructions to simplify your search, also providing options to explore various healthcare providers who can address your medical needs effectively. We focus on empowering you with information to make informed decisions about your healthcare.

1. What is Medicaid and Why is it Important?

Medicaid is a joint federal and state government program that provides healthcare coverage to millions of Americans, particularly those with limited income and resources. Understanding the basics of Medicaid and its importance can help you navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

1.1 Medicaid Eligibility Criteria

Medicaid eligibility varies by state, but it generally includes:

Low-income individuals and families: Those who meet specific income thresholds.
Children: Often covered through programs like the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Pregnant women: Many states offer Medicaid coverage during pregnancy.
Seniors and people with disabilities: Those who may also be eligible for Medicare.

Each state has its own set of rules and income limits, so it’s essential to check your state’s specific requirements.

1.2 Key Benefits of Medicaid Coverage

Medicaid offers a wide range of benefits, including:

Doctor visits: Coverage for routine check-ups and specialist care.
Hospital care: Inpatient and outpatient services.
Prescription drugs: Coverage for necessary medications.
Mental health services: Access to therapy and counseling.
Preventive care: Screenings and vaccinations to maintain health.
Vision and dental care: Some states offer these additional benefits.

Having Medicaid coverage ensures that you can access necessary medical care without facing significant financial burdens.

1.3 The Role of Medicaid in Healthcare Access

Medicaid plays a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations. According to a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation in June 2024, Medicaid enrollees are more likely to receive preventive services and have better access to care compared to the uninsured. It also helps reduce disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

For instance, Medicaid provides essential support for individuals managing chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease, ensuring they receive ongoing care and medication. Additionally, it supports families by providing healthcare coverage for children, promoting their health and well-being from an early age.

2. How to Find Doctors That Accept Medicaid

Finding doctors who accept Medicaid can sometimes be challenging, but there are several effective strategies you can use to simplify the process. By using online provider directories, contacting Medicaid directly, and asking for recommendations, you can increase your chances of finding a doctor who meets your needs.

2.1 Using Online Provider Directories

Online provider directories are a valuable resource for finding doctors who accept Medicaid. These directories are typically maintained by state Medicaid agencies and managed care organizations.

How to Use Provider Directories:

Access the Directory: Visit the website of your state’s Medicaid agency or the specific managed care plan you are enrolled in.
Search Filters: Use the search filters to specify your location, medical specialty, and accepted insurance (Medicaid).
Verify Information: Always call the doctor’s office to confirm they are currently accepting new Medicaid patients and that their information is up-to-date.

Example:

Let’s say you live in Houston, Texas, and need to find a podiatrist who accepts Medicaid. You would visit the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) website and use the provider search tool. Enter “podiatrist” in the specialty field and your zip code. The directory will then list podiatrists in your area who accept Texas Medicaid.

2.2 Contacting Medicaid Directly

Contacting Medicaid directly can provide you with personalized assistance in finding a doctor who accepts Medicaid.

Steps to Contact Medicaid:

Find the Contact Information: Visit your state’s Medicaid website to find the contact phone number or email address.
Prepare Your Information: Have your Medicaid ID number, zip code, and preferred medical specialty ready.
Ask for a List: Request a list of doctors in your area who accept Medicaid and are currently accepting new patients.
Follow Up: After receiving the list, call each doctor’s office to verify their information and schedule an appointment.

Benefits of Direct Contact:

Up-to-Date Information: Medicaid representatives can provide the most current information on participating providers.
Personalized Assistance: They can help you navigate the provider network and answer any questions you may have.
Additional Resources: Medicaid may also offer additional resources, such as transportation assistance or translation services.

2.3 Asking for Recommendations

Asking for recommendations from friends, family, or community organizations can be a great way to find a doctor who accepts Medicaid.

Who to Ask:

Friends and Family: They may have personal experience with doctors who accept Medicaid.
Community Centers: Local community centers often have lists of healthcare providers who serve Medicaid recipients.
Social Workers: Social workers can provide referrals to doctors and other healthcare resources.
Local Hospitals: Hospital staff may be able to recommend doctors affiliated with the hospital who accept Medicaid.

Tips for Asking for Recommendations:

Be Specific: Clearly state that you are looking for a doctor who accepts Medicaid and is accepting new patients.
Consider Personal Needs: Mention any specific needs or preferences, such as a doctor who speaks your language or specializes in a particular condition.
Follow Up: After receiving recommendations, research each doctor and call their office to confirm their Medicaid participation.

3. Understanding Medicaid Managed Care Plans

Many states use managed care plans to administer Medicaid benefits. Understanding how these plans work can help you find doctors who accept Medicaid within the network.

3.1 What are Medicaid Managed Care Plans?

Medicaid managed care plans are health insurance programs that contract with state Medicaid agencies to provide healthcare services to Medicaid enrollees. Instead of the state directly paying healthcare providers, it pays a managed care organization (MCO) a set fee per enrollee to manage their care.

Key Features of Managed Care Plans:

Network of Providers: Enrollees choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the plan’s network.
Coordinated Care: The PCP coordinates the enrollee’s healthcare services, including referrals to specialists.
Preventive Care Focus: Managed care plans emphasize preventive care to keep enrollees healthy and reduce healthcare costs.
Quality Improvement: MCOs implement quality improvement programs to ensure enrollees receive high-quality care.

3.2 How to Find Doctors Within a Managed Care Plan

If you are enrolled in a Medicaid managed care plan, you must choose a doctor within the plan’s network. Here’s how to find doctors within your plan:

Visit the Plan’s Website: Go to the website of your managed care plan.
Use the Provider Directory: Look for the “Find a Doctor” or “Provider Directory” tool.
Search by Specialty and Location: Enter your location and the type of doctor you need (e.g., primary care physician, podiatrist).
Confirm Medicaid Acceptance: Call the doctor’s office to verify they accept your specific Medicaid managed care plan and are accepting new patients.

Example:

If you are enrolled in the Anthem Medicaid managed care plan in Virginia, you would visit the Anthem website and use the “Find a Doctor” tool. Enter your location and the specialty you need, and the directory will list doctors in your area who participate in the Anthem Medicaid network.

3.3 Navigating Referrals and Authorizations

In many managed care plans, you may need a referral from your primary care provider (PCP) to see a specialist. Understanding how referrals and authorizations work can help you access the care you need.

Referral Process:

See Your PCP: Schedule an appointment with your PCP to discuss your medical needs.
Request a Referral: If your PCP determines you need to see a specialist, they will issue a referral.
Choose a Specialist: Select a specialist within your managed care plan’s network.
Schedule an Appointment: Contact the specialist’s office to schedule an appointment, providing the referral information.

Authorization Process:

Some services may require prior authorization from your managed care plan. This means the plan must approve the service before you receive it. Your doctor will typically handle the authorization process, but it’s a good idea to check with your plan to ensure the necessary approvals are in place.

4. Overcoming Common Challenges in Finding Doctors That Accept Medicaid

Finding doctors that accept Medicaid can present several challenges. Knowing how to address these obstacles can make the process smoother.

4.1 Limited Provider Availability

One of the biggest challenges is the limited number of doctors who accept Medicaid. This can be due to lower reimbursement rates compared to private insurance, administrative burdens, and other factors.

Strategies to Overcome Limited Availability:

Expand Your Search Area: Be willing to travel a bit further to see a doctor who accepts Medicaid.
Consider Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): FQHCs provide comprehensive primary care services to underserved populations, regardless of their ability to pay.
Look for Teaching Hospitals: Teaching hospitals often have a mission to serve Medicaid patients.
Use Telehealth Services: Telehealth can expand access to care, especially in rural areas where there may be few local providers.

4.2 Long Wait Times

Due to high demand and limited provider availability, you may experience longer wait times for appointments with doctors who accept Medicaid.

Strategies to Reduce Wait Times:

Schedule Preventive Care in Advance: Plan ahead and schedule routine check-ups well in advance.
Be Flexible with Appointment Times: Consider scheduling appointments during off-peak hours or on less popular days.
Ask About Cancellation Lists: If you need to be seen sooner, ask if the office has a cancellation list and if you can be added to it.
Use Urgent Care Centers: For non-emergency medical issues, urgent care centers can provide timely care without the long wait times of a primary care physician.

4.3 Difficulty Verifying Information

Provider directories may not always be up-to-date, leading to confusion and frustration. Doctors may leave a plan or stop accepting new Medicaid patients without the directory being updated.

Strategies to Ensure Accurate Information:

Call the Doctor’s Office Directly: Always call the doctor’s office to confirm they accept Medicaid and are accepting new patients.
Ask About Specific Medicaid Plans: If you are enrolled in a managed care plan, ask if the doctor participates in that specific plan.
Check the Medicaid Website Regularly: Review the Medicaid website for any updates or changes to the provider network.
Report Inaccurate Information: If you find inaccurate information in a provider directory, report it to the Medicaid agency or managed care plan.

5. Additional Resources and Support

Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, but there are many resources available to help you find doctors that accept Medicaid and access the care you need.

5.1 State Medicaid Websites

Each state has a Medicaid website that provides information on eligibility, benefits, and how to find providers. These websites are a valuable resource for understanding your Medicaid coverage.

What You Can Find on State Medicaid Websites:

Eligibility Requirements: Information on income limits, residency requirements, and other eligibility criteria.
Covered Services: A list of medical services covered by Medicaid, including doctor visits, hospital care, and prescription drugs.
Provider Directories: Tools to search for doctors, dentists, and other healthcare providers who accept Medicaid.
Contact Information: Phone numbers and email addresses for contacting Medicaid representatives.
Forms and Applications: Access to application forms and other necessary documents.

Examples of State Medicaid Websites:

Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP): https://www.tmhp.com/
California Department of Healthcare Services (DHCS): https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/
New York State Department of Health: https://health.ny.gov/

5.2 Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are community-based healthcare providers that receive federal funding to provide primary care services to underserved populations. They offer comprehensive care, including medical, dental, and mental health services, and accept Medicaid and other forms of insurance.

Benefits of Using FQHCs:

Affordable Care: FQHCs offer a sliding fee scale based on income, making care more affordable for low-income individuals.
Comprehensive Services: They provide a wide range of services, including primary care, preventive care, and chronic disease management.
Culturally Competent Care: FQHCs are committed to providing culturally competent care that meets the unique needs of their communities.
Convenient Locations: FQHCs are located in underserved areas, making it easier for people to access care.

How to Find an FQHC:

Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA): Use the HRSA’s Find a Health Center tool to locate FQHCs in your area: https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/
State Medicaid Websites: Many state Medicaid websites have lists of FQHCs that accept Medicaid.

5.3 Non-Profit Organizations

Non-profit organizations can also provide assistance in finding doctors that accept Medicaid and navigating the healthcare system. These organizations often offer free or low-cost services to help people access care.

Examples of Non-Profit Organizations:

United Way: United Way provides information and referrals to healthcare resources in local communities.
American Red Cross: The Red Cross offers health and safety training and disaster relief services.
Local Community Centers: Community centers often have lists of healthcare providers who serve Medicaid recipients.
Patient Advocate Foundation: This organization provides case management services and financial aid to patients with chronic diseases.

How Non-Profit Organizations Can Help:

Information and Referrals: Providing information on doctors who accept Medicaid and other healthcare resources.
Assistance with Applications: Helping people complete Medicaid applications and other necessary paperwork.
Case Management: Providing ongoing support and guidance to help people manage their healthcare needs.
Financial Assistance: Offering financial aid to help people pay for medical expenses.

6. The Importance of Preventative Care

Preventative care is an essential aspect of maintaining good health, and Medicaid emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations. By taking advantage of preventative services, you can identify potential health issues early and take steps to prevent them from becoming more serious.

6.1 What is Preventative Care?

Preventative care includes medical services that are designed to prevent illness and maintain health. These services can include:

Regular Check-ups: Routine visits to your primary care physician to monitor your health and identify any potential problems.
Screenings: Tests to detect diseases early, such as mammograms for breast cancer, colonoscopies for colon cancer, and Pap smears for cervical cancer.
Vaccinations: Immunizations to protect against infectious diseases like influenza, measles, and pneumonia.
Counseling: Guidance on healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation.

6.2 Benefits of Preventative Care

There are numerous benefits to receiving preventative care, including:

Early Detection of Health Issues: Preventative screenings can help detect diseases early, when they are easier to treat.
Reduced Healthcare Costs: By preventing illness, you can reduce the need for costly medical treatments in the future.
Improved Quality of Life: Preventative care can help you stay healthy and active, improving your overall quality of life.
Increased Lifespan: By preventing and managing chronic diseases, you can increase your lifespan.

6.3 Preventative Services Covered by Medicaid

Medicaid covers a wide range of preventative services, including:

Well-Child Visits: Regular check-ups for children to monitor their growth and development.
Annual Physicals: Yearly check-ups for adults to assess their overall health.
Vaccinations: Immunizations for children and adults to protect against infectious diseases.
Screenings: Tests for various diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Counseling: Guidance on healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation.

6.4 How to Access Preventative Care

To access preventative care, you can:

Schedule an Appointment with Your PCP: Your primary care physician can provide many preventative services and refer you to specialists if needed.
Visit a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC): FQHCs offer comprehensive primary care services, including preventative care.
Check with Your Medicaid Managed Care Plan: Your managed care plan can provide information on covered preventative services and how to access them.

By taking advantage of preventative care, you can stay healthy and prevent costly medical treatments down the road.

7. Telehealth Options for Medicaid Enrollees

Telehealth, also known as telemedicine, is the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely. It has become increasingly popular, especially for Medicaid enrollees who may face challenges accessing traditional in-person care.

7.1 What is Telehealth?

Telehealth involves using communication technologies, such as video conferencing, to provide medical consultations, monitor patients, and deliver other healthcare services remotely.

Types of Telehealth Services:

Live Video Conferencing: Real-time consultations between a patient and a healthcare provider.
Remote Patient Monitoring: Using devices to track a patient’s vital signs and other health data remotely.
Store-and-Forward Telehealth: Sending medical information, such as images and lab results, to a provider for review.
Mobile Health (mHealth): Using mobile devices and apps to deliver healthcare services.

7.2 Benefits of Telehealth for Medicaid Enrollees

Telehealth offers numerous benefits for Medicaid enrollees, including:

Increased Access to Care: Telehealth can expand access to care, especially for people who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling.
Convenience: Telehealth allows you to receive care from the comfort of your home, saving time and transportation costs.
Reduced Wait Times: Telehealth appointments may be available sooner than traditional in-person appointments.
Improved Chronic Disease Management: Remote patient monitoring can help people manage chronic conditions more effectively.
Cost Savings: Telehealth can reduce healthcare costs by preventing unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalizations.

7.3 Telehealth Services Covered by Medicaid

Many states now cover a range of telehealth services under Medicaid, including:

Primary Care Consultations: Remote consultations with primary care physicians.
Specialist Consultations: Remote consultations with specialists, such as psychiatrists and dermatologists.
Mental Health Services: Teletherapy and telepsychiatry services.
Chronic Disease Management: Remote monitoring of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Rehabilitation Services: Telerehabilitation services, such as physical therapy and occupational therapy.

7.4 How to Access Telehealth Services

To access telehealth services, you can:

Check with Your Medicaid Managed Care Plan: Your managed care plan can provide information on covered telehealth services and how to access them.
Ask Your Doctor: Ask your doctor if they offer telehealth services.
Use Telehealth Provider Directories: Some organizations maintain directories of telehealth providers who accept Medicaid.

8. Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Medicaid Enrollee

As a Medicaid enrollee, you have certain rights and responsibilities. Understanding these rights and responsibilities can help you navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

8.1 Key Rights of Medicaid Enrollees

Right to Information: You have the right to receive information about your Medicaid coverage, including covered services, provider networks, and appeal processes.
Right to Choose Providers: You have the right to choose your primary care provider and other healthcare providers within your managed care plan’s network.
Right to Confidentiality: You have the right to privacy and confidentiality of your medical information.
Right to Appeal: You have the right to appeal decisions made by your Medicaid agency or managed care plan.
Right to Non-Discrimination: You have the right to receive care without discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, or other factors.

8.2 Key Responsibilities of Medicaid Enrollees

Provide Accurate Information: You are responsible for providing accurate information to your Medicaid agency and healthcare providers.
Follow Plan Rules: You are responsible for following the rules of your Medicaid managed care plan, such as obtaining referrals when required.
Keep Appointments: You are responsible for keeping your medical appointments or canceling them in advance if you cannot attend.
Use Your Medicaid Card Appropriately: You are responsible for using your Medicaid card only for covered services and not sharing it with others.
Report Changes in Circumstances: You are responsible for reporting any changes in your income, household size, or other circumstances that may affect your eligibility for Medicaid.

8.3 How to File a Complaint or Appeal

If you believe your rights have been violated or you disagree with a decision made by your Medicaid agency or managed care plan, you have the right to file a complaint or appeal.

Steps to File a Complaint or Appeal:

Contact Your Medicaid Agency or Managed Care Plan: Start by contacting your Medicaid agency or managed care plan to discuss your concerns.
File a Written Complaint: If you are not satisfied with the response, file a written complaint with your Medicaid agency or managed care plan.
Request an Appeal: If you disagree with a decision made by your Medicaid agency or managed care plan, request an appeal.
Attend the Hearing: If your appeal is not resolved, you may have the right to attend a hearing and present your case.
Seek Legal Assistance: If you need help navigating the complaint or appeal process, consider seeking legal assistance from a qualified attorney.

9. The Role of Community Health Workers

Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a vital role in connecting Medicaid enrollees with healthcare services and resources. They are trusted members of the community who provide culturally competent support and guidance.

9.1 What are Community Health Workers?

Community Health Workers (CHWs) are frontline public health workers who serve as a bridge between communities and healthcare systems. They provide a range of services, including health education, outreach, and case management.

Key Roles of Community Health Workers:

Health Education: Providing information on health topics, such as disease prevention and chronic disease management.
Outreach: Reaching out to community members to connect them with healthcare services.
Case Management: Helping people navigate the healthcare system and access needed services.
Advocacy: Advocating for the needs of community members.
Cultural Mediation: Bridging cultural gaps between healthcare providers and patients.

9.2 Benefits of Working with Community Health Workers

Working with Community Health Workers (CHWs) offers numerous benefits for Medicaid enrollees, including:

Improved Access to Care: CHWs can help you find doctors that accept Medicaid and connect you with other healthcare resources.
Culturally Competent Support: CHWs understand the cultural and linguistic needs of their communities and can provide culturally competent support.
Increased Adherence to Treatment: CHWs can help you understand your treatment plan and adhere to medical advice.
Reduced Healthcare Costs: CHWs can help prevent unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalizations.
Improved Health Outcomes: By providing health education and support, CHWs can help improve health outcomes.

9.3 How to Find a Community Health Worker

To find a Community Health Worker (CHW), you can:

Contact Your Medicaid Agency or Managed Care Plan: Your Medicaid agency or managed care plan may have a list of CHWs in your area.
Visit a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC): FQHCs often employ CHWs to provide community outreach and support.
Contact Local Community Organizations: Community organizations may have CHWs on staff or be able to refer you to one.

10. Tips for Building a Strong Doctor-Patient Relationship

Building a strong doctor-patient relationship is essential for receiving high-quality healthcare. A good relationship can improve communication, increase trust, and lead to better health outcomes.

10.1 Choose a Doctor You Trust

The first step in building a strong doctor-patient relationship is to choose a doctor you trust. This means finding a doctor who is knowledgeable, compassionate, and respectful.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor:

Qualifications and Experience: Look for a doctor who is board-certified and has experience treating your specific condition.
Communication Style: Choose a doctor who communicates clearly and listens to your concerns.
Personality: Find a doctor whose personality you connect with and who makes you feel comfortable.
Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other healthcare providers.

10.2 Communicate Openly and Honestly

Open and honest communication is essential for building a strong doctor-patient relationship. Be sure to share your medical history, symptoms, and concerns with your doctor.

Tips for Effective Communication:

Prepare for Your Appointment: Write down your questions and concerns before your appointment.
Be Specific: Describe your symptoms in detail and be specific about when they started and how they affect you.
Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something.
Listen Carefully: Pay attention to your doctor’s advice and recommendations.
Be Honest: Be honest about your lifestyle habits, such as diet, exercise, and smoking.

10.3 Follow Your Doctor’s Advice

Following your doctor’s advice is crucial for managing your health and achieving the best possible outcomes. This means taking your medications as prescribed, attending follow-up appointments, and making lifestyle changes as recommended.

Tips for Following Your Doctor’s Advice:

Understand Your Treatment Plan: Make sure you understand your treatment plan and what you need to do to manage your condition.
Take Your Medications as Prescribed: Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking your medications, including the correct dosage and timing.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Make Lifestyle Changes: Be willing to make lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation, as recommended by your doctor.

Finding doctors that accept Medicaid and building a strong relationship with them can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes. thebootdoctor.net is committed to providing you with the resources and information you need to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I confirm if a doctor accepts my Medicaid plan?

Always call the doctor’s office directly to verify if they currently accept your specific Medicaid plan and are accepting new patients.

2. What should I do if I can’t find a doctor that accepts Medicaid in my area?

Expand your search area, consider Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and explore telehealth options for remote consultations.

3. Are telehealth services covered by Medicaid?

Many states cover telehealth services under Medicaid, including primary care consultations, specialist visits, and mental health services. Check with your specific Medicaid plan for details.

4. What are Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)?

FQHCs are community-based healthcare providers that receive federal funding to provide primary care services to underserved populations, regardless of their ability to pay.

5. How can Community Health Workers help me?

Community Health Workers can provide health education, outreach, case management, and connect you with healthcare services, including doctors who accept Medicaid.

6. What are my rights as a Medicaid enrollee?

As a Medicaid enrollee, you have the right to information, the right to choose providers, the right to confidentiality, the right to appeal decisions, and the right to non-discrimination.

7. What if I need to see a specialist?

In many Medicaid managed care plans, you may need a referral from your primary care provider (PCP) to see a specialist. Check with your plan for specific requirements.

8. How can I report inaccurate information in a provider directory?

If you find inaccurate information in a provider directory, report it to the Medicaid agency or managed care plan responsible for the directory.

9. What is preventative care, and why is it important?

Preventative care includes medical services designed to prevent illness and maintain health, such as check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations. It helps detect health issues early and reduce healthcare costs.

10. How can I find out what services are covered by my Medicaid plan?

Visit your state’s Medicaid website or contact your Medicaid managed care plan directly to get a list of covered services and any specific requirements.

At thebootdoctor.net, we understand the importance of having access to quality healthcare. If you’re facing challenges in finding doctors that accept Medicaid or need guidance on managing your foot health, explore our resources and contact us today for personalized support and information. Your foot health is our priority. Visit thebootdoctor.net or call us at +1 (713) 791-1414. Our address is 6565 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States.