About
Dr. James Tinsley pursued medicine as a childhood dream, beginning that path in 1996. He earned his medical degree from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2000. He then completed his Family Medicine residency at the Medical College of Virginia through the Hanover Family Physicians program. He finished that training in 2003, earning the distinction of Chief Resident. Dr. Tinsley holds board certification from the American Board of Family Medicine and maintains full licensure with the State of Virginia.
Dr. Tinsley founded Lighthouse Direct Primary Care to give patients a better experience than conventional medicine allows. He wanted to build a practice where care takes priority over paperwork and time pressure. That philosophy shapes everything at Lighthouse, from 30-to-60-minute visits to direct communication by phone, text, and email. He treats patients across all age groups and handles a broad range of in-office procedures. Dr. Tinsley also extends care to homebound patients through house calls in and around Newport News.
Education & Training
Medical School
Eastern Virginia Medical School (graduated 2000)
Residency
Family Medicine, Medical College of Virginia/VCU (Hanover Family Physicians), Chief Resident, 2003
Certifications
Who is Dr. Tinsley right for?
Dr. Tinsley works well with individuals and families seeking accessible, relationship-driven primary care. Patients who want same-day availability and direct physician contact benefit most from his approach. He treats patients across all age groups, from young children through older adults. Homebound patients within the Newport News area can also receive care through his house call service. Employers looking to offer staff a personal physician at a predictable cost will find his business plan a practical fit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Tinsley practices full-scope family medicine for patients of all ages. He manages acute illnesses, chronic conditions, and minor emergencies. He also performs in-office procedures including skin procedures, EKGs, joint injections, pap smears, and sutures.
Yes. Dr. Tinsley holds board certification from the American Board of Family Medicine. He also maintains full licensure with the State of Virginia.
Dr. Tinsley graduated from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2000. He completed his Family Medicine residency at the Medical College of Virginia through the Hanover Family Physicians program in 2003, serving as Chief Resident.
Yes. Dr. Tinsley makes himself available to members by phone, text, and email. This direct access is a core part of the Lighthouse Direct Primary Care model.
Yes. Dr. Tinsley offers house calls for homebound patients in Newport News. Patients within 10 miles pay $350 per month. Patients beyond 10 miles pay $350 per month plus $150 per hour.
Appointments with Dr. Tinsley run 30 to 60 minutes. That extended visit time allows him to address concerns thoroughly and without rushing.
Dr. Tinsley performs a range of procedures at the practice. These include skin procedures, pap smears, EKGs, joint injections, and sutures. Materials costs apply for procedural services.
Yes. Dr. Tinsley offers telemedicine appointments for members. Patients can also reach him by phone, text, or email for questions that do not require an in-person visit.
Doctor profile last updated April 10, 2026