James Mark, MD is an Obstetrician/Gynecologist practicing at The START Center for Cancer Care in San Antonio, TX. He is a registered provider with the Texas Medical Board, practicing under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act). Dr. Mark is dedicated to providing comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care, encompassing a wide range of services from routine exams and contraception to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. As a trusted local provider, he partners with primary care physicians to ensure holistic patient well-being, serving patients from adolescence through menopause and beyond. He is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (737) 271-0505 to schedule an appointment.
Obstetrician/Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) are the primary healthcare specialists for women's reproductive health, providing gynecological care (routine exams, contraception, menopause management, etc.) and obstetrical care (pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum), often partnering with primary care physicians to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. Dr. Mark, a gynecologic surgical oncologist with the START Center, brings extensive experience to this role. He received his medical degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed his training with an internship at Union Memorial Hospital, residency at Brooke Army Medical Center, and fellowship training in gynecologic oncology at the University of South Florida College of Medicine. His career includes leadership roles in the U.S. Army, culminating in his role as chief of gynecologic oncology and medical director at Tripler Army Medical Center. Dr. Mark's approach to care emphasizes evidence-based medicine, collaboration, and ensuring patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. James Mark provides consultations primarily in English.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Mark is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Mark's patient-centered approach to obstetric and gynecologic care prioritizes open communication and a thorough understanding of each patient's individual needs. He provides comprehensive care, encompassing routine gynecological exams, contraception counseling, menopause management, and obstetrical services from preconception to postpartum. His collaborative style involves close partnerships with primary care physicians to ensure holistic well-being and personalized treatment plans based on the latest evidence-based practices.
By working together, you and Dr. Mark can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care)
- Gold
- Health Net
- Humana
- Medicaid
- Midwest Health Plan
- PacifiCare
- Texas True Choice
- Texas True Choice/Ethix Southwest
- Tricare
- United Healthcare
- UnitedHealthCare
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Mark offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Fallopian Tube Torsion: Fallopian tube torsion is a painful condition where a fallopian tube twists, cutting off its blood supply; an OB/GYN can diagnose this through imaging and may perform surgery to untwist it.
- Tubo-Ovarian Abscess: A tubo-ovarian abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms near a woman's fallopian tube and ovary, and an OB/GYN can diagnose and treat it with antibiotics or surgery.
- Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis is a condition where the inner lining of the uterus grows into its muscular layer, leading to painful periods and heavy menstrual bleeding; an OB/GYN provides diagnosis and management.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): If you're concerned about an STD, your OB/GYN can perform tests to determine if you have an infection and provide effective treatment options to manage it.
- Atrophic Vaginitis: Atrophic vaginitis is a condition causing vaginal and vulvar dryness and irritation due to reduced estrogen; an OB/GYN can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Gynecologic Cancer: OB/GYNs diagnose and treat cancers of the cervix, uterus, ovaries, vagina, and vulva, providing comprehensive care throughout the process.
- Vaginal Cancer: If you're diagnosed with vaginal cancer, your OB/GYN will guide you through treatment options, which might include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to genital warts or cancer; your OB/GYN can help prevent and manage HPV-related issues.
- Acute Vaginitis: If you experience sudden vaginal irritation, burning, or unusual discharge, it could be acute vaginitisyour OB/GYN can help identify the cause and provide effective treatment.
- Fallopian Tube Disorders: If you suspect a fallopian tube issue causing pain, infertility, or other symptoms, an OB/GYN can evaluate your condition and create a personalized treatment plan.
- Pap Smear Abnormalities: A Pap smear abnormality indicates that cells from your cervix show some irregularities, and your OB/GYN will help determine if further tests are needed.
- Fallopian Tube Cancer: OB/GYNs diagnose and treat fallopian tube cancer, a type of cancer affecting the tubes that carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.
This list represents some of the common conditions treated. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
To provide comprehensive and patient-centered care, Dr. Mark offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Gynecologic Cancer Screening: Regular gynecologic cancer screenings can help prevent deaths from these cancers by catching them in their early stages.
- First Trimester Screening: It's a set of tests done between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy that helps identify potential issues like birth defects, giving you options for further testing and planning.
- Destruction or Excision of Lesion of Cervix (incl. LEEP): To diagnose or treat cervical abnormalities, a portion of the cervix may be surgically removed during this procedure.
- Ovarian Cancer Screening: Ovarian cancer screenings aim to find ovarian cancer in its early stages when treatment is most effective.
- Pregnancy Test: This test helps confirm or rule out pregnancy, providing early answers.
- Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy is major surgery used to treat uterine diseases and conditions; it permanently ends the ability to have children.
- Colpopexy: This surgery uses stitches or mesh to support the pelvic organs and reduce discomfort from prolapse.
- Fetal Cardiac Screening: A non-invasive procedure that assesses your baby's heartbeat and rhythm to ensure its healthy development.
- Colposcopy: If your Pap smear shows abnormal results, a colposcopy allows your doctor to get a closer look and take a small sample for testing.
- Vaginosis Screening: Vaginosis screening is a test to check for bacterial imbalances in the vagina that can cause discomfort and infection.
- Vulvectomy: This surgical procedure involves the removal of some or all of the vulva, typically performed to address cancerous or precancerous growths.
- Pregnancy Non-Stress Test: During a non-stress test, your baby's heartbeat is monitored to evaluate its response to movement, helping doctors assess its health.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for their professional license in Texas.
Dr. Mark is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how proactive care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan for fallopian tube torsion, a patient was able to manage the condition effectively, alleviating pain and regaining their normal daily activities.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient successfully managed their tubo-ovarian abscess, experiencing a significant improvement in their overall well-being. Their provider's guidance helped them understand the condition and feel empowered to take control of their health.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan from their obstetrician/gynecologist, a patient experienced significant relief from painful periods and heavy bleeding, regaining a sense of well-being.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
The START Center for Cancer Care
4383 Medical Dr, San Antonio, TX, 78229
Phone: (737) 271-0505
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- Florida (Fellowship Hospital)
- University of South Florida College of Medicine Tampa (Fellowship Hospital)
- Brooke Army Medical Center Fort Sam Houston (Residency Hospital)
- Texas (Residency Hospital)
- Maryland (Internship Hospital)
- Union Memorial Hospital Baltimore (Internship Hospital)
- Maryland (Medical School)
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Obstetric and Gynecologic care with Dr. Mark:
- What is the difference between an Obstetrician and a Gynecologist?
- An OB/GYN, like Dr. Mark, is a physician trained in both obstetrics and gynecology. A gynecologist specializes in the overall health of the female reproductive system, including annual exams, infections, and contraception. An obstetrician specializes in pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. Dr. Mark is trained in both and provides comprehensive care for women throughout their lives.
- At what age should I (or my daughter) have my first gynecologist visit?
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends a first visit between the ages of 13 and 15. This initial visit is often a conversation about healthy habits and establishing a relationship with a doctor, and a pelvic exam is not typically needed unless there is a specific concern.
- I have very painful and heavy periods. Is that normal?
- Experiencing painful and heavy periods is something we take very seriously. While some cramping is common, severe pain or heavy bleeding that interferes with your daily life is not normal and should be evaluated. These symptoms can sometimes be signs of treatable conditions like endometriosis or fibroids, and Dr. Mark can diagnose the cause and offer solutions.
- My partner and I are having trouble getting pregnant. When should we see a doctor?
- Couples should generally seek a fertility evaluation if they have not conceived after one year of trying (if the woman is under 35) or after six months (if the woman is 35 or older). Dr. Mark can perform an initial workup and discuss next steps or referral to a fertility specialist.
- What are my options for birth control?
- Birth control options include hormonal methods like pills, patches, and rings; long-acting reversible contraceptives such as IUDs and implants; barrier methods like condoms; and permanent options like tubal ligation. Dr. Mark will discuss your lifestyle and health to help you choose the best method for you.
- I'm pregnant. When should I schedule my first prenatal appointment?
- Call our office as soon as you have a positive home pregnancy test. Your first prenatal visit is typically scheduled around 8 weeks after your last menstrual period. This visit is crucial for confirming your pregnancy, establishing a due date, and developing a plan for a healthy pregnancy.
- How often do I need a Pap smear?
- Pap smear guidelines have changed. For most women, a Pap test is recommended every 3 years for ages 21-29. For women ages 30-65, a Pap test combined with an HPV test every 5 years is preferred. Dr. Mark will advise on a personalized schedule based on your health history.
- What is the difference between 3D/4D ultrasound and the regular medical ultrasound?
- Standard 2D ultrasound is the primary tool for assessing fetal growth, anatomy, and well-being. 3D/4D ultrasounds provide detailed, photo-like images, but are not used for medical diagnosis and are optional for keepsake purposes.
The START Center for Cancer Care
4383 Medical Dr
San Antonio TX 78229
Phone: (737) 271-0505
James Mark, MD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas Medical Board.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1841206885
Registration can typically be verified through The Texas Medical Board website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by kellysearch.com, is for informational purposes to help you connect with local healthcare providers. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Healthcare providers like Dr. James Mark are trained to manage a wide range of health concerns. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.