Dr. Andrew Esch, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his clinic in Temple Terrace, FL. He is a registered member of The Florida Board of Medicine, practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), and is committed to being a trusted partner in your health journey. Your internist serves as your primary healthcare partner, coordinating complex care, managing chronic conditions, and focusing on your overall well-being and independence to help you thrive as you age. He serves primarily older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Esch is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (813) 871-8200 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Esch is a palliative medicine physician in Tampa, Florida, with a strong commitment to improving the quality of life for patients and families facing serious illness. He received his BS, MBA, and MD degrees from the University at Buffalo and completed rigorous medical training, including an internship at Sisters Hospital. His experience includes working in palliative care in both New York and Florida, serving as the Vice President of Education for the Center To Advance Palliative Care (CAPC) at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and as the former Medical Director for Hillsborough County at Seasons Palliative Care. Dr. Esch is Board Certified in Hospice Care and Palliative Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is committed to providing a high standard of care, focusing on improving quality of life for patients and their families and caregivers. Dr. Andrew Esch provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Andrew Esch is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Andrew Esch is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes understanding your unique needs and goals, ensuring a personalized approach to maximizing your comfort and independence as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Andrew Esch can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Andrew Esch provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Sleep Apnea: Sleep apnea disrupts your sleep cycle by causing pauses in breathing, but with proper medical attention and potentially a simple device used at night, you can experience better sleep and more energy during the day.
- Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition causing widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep problems, but with a focus on managing symptoms, you can improve your comfort and maintain a fulfilling life.
- Dyslipidemia: Unhealthy levels of cholesterol and fats in the blood, known as dyslipidemia, can be managed effectively with your doctor's guidance, including medication and lifestyle changes, so you can stay active and maintain your overall well-being.
- Hyperlipidemia: If you have hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), it's important to know that it's a common condition treatable with diet changes, exercise, and sometimes medication. These changes can help protect your heart and maintain your overall well-being.
- Sciatica: Sciatica, characterized by pain that runs from your lower back down your leg, can impact your daily life, but understanding the condition and working with your doctor on a treatment plan – which may include medication and physical therapy – can help you manage your symptoms and regain comfort.
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that causes joint pain and stiffness, often making everyday activities more challenging, but with proper management, you can maintain your mobility and independence.
- Insomnia: Insomnia is the difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, a common problem that can significantly impact your energy levels and overall well-being, but thankfully, there are treatments that can help you rest better.
- Diabetic Polyneuropathy: Diabetic polyneuropathy is nerve damage from uncontrolled diabetes, causing tingling, burning, or numbness, primarily affecting the extremities. Working with your healthcare team on a treatment plan—including blood sugar control and possibly medication—can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
- Headache: Experiencing headaches? Don't let them control your day; a simple chat with your doctor can help find the cause and determine the best treatment to relieve your pain.
- Pulmonary Hypertension: If you have pulmonary hypertension, it means your lungs' blood vessels are narrower than normal, causing your heart to work harder. We can work together to find treatments to relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Neck Pain: Neck pain can be caused by many factors, and while it can be worrisome, it's often treatable with methods like heat or ice packs, specialized exercises, and in some cases, prescription medication, allowing you to maintain your daily activities.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can make you feel sluggish and affect your overall health, but with the right medication and care, you can effectively manage your symptoms and feel healthier.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Andrew Esch offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Physical Examination: A physical exam helps your doctor monitor the progress of your existing health conditions and adjust your treatment plan accordingly, ensuring you receive the best possible care.
- Colposcopy: Colposcopy is a procedure using a special magnifying instrument to examine the cervix for abnormal cells that might indicate cervical cancer or precancerous changes.
- Facet Block: Facet block injections are used to manage chronic back pain by temporarily numbing the nerves in your spine, offering relief and improved mobility.
- Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: This service helps diagnose and manage various sleep issues, improving overall health and well-being for seniors and enhancing their quality of life.
- Epidural Injection: An epidural injection is a procedure where medication is carefully placed near the spinal cord to help relieve pain in the back or legs, improving your comfort and mobility.
- C-Section: In some cases, a C-section may be part of a comprehensive care plan for expecting mothers facing high-risk pregnancies, ensuring the best possible outcome.
- Pain Management: Pain management is a crucial part of a senior's care plan, helping to control chronic pain and allowing them to remain active and engaged.
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: Having an advance directive offers peace of mind, knowing your healthcare decisions align with your values and beliefs, easing anxieties for you and your family.
- Gynecologic Cancer Screening: Regular gynecologic cancer screening is a crucial part of a comprehensive healthcare plan for women, helping to manage and prevent gynecological cancers.
- Nerve Blocks: Nerve blocks are a treatment option that may be included in your care plan to reduce pain, allowing for better sleep and overall well-being.
- Chronic Pain Management: Chronic pain management is a crucial part of a comprehensive care plan for seniors, addressing pain's impact on daily activities and mental health.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: For seniors with nerve compression causing pain and limited mobility, epidural steroid injections can be incorporated into a pain management strategy to improve comfort and function.
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 Internal Medicine in Florida.
Dr. Andrew Esch is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- With consistent treatment for sleep apnea, a senior was able to reclaim their love of reading, staying up later and enjoying more time with their family.
- With personalized guidance on managing symptoms, a senior was able to resume her beloved weekly book club meetings, a cherished social connection.
- Following a personalized treatment plan, a senior felt more energetic and confident, enjoying their daily walks and social gatherings without the worry of potential health complications.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
View on Map
- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Hospice Care and Palliative Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Andrew Esch:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Esch's practice specializes in internal medicine, which means he's a primary care doctor who focuses exclusively on adult health. This makes him uniquely qualified to handle the diverse and often complex health concerns that can arise as people age. He excels at managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists, ensuring comprehensive and personalized care for his patients.
- Does Dr. Andrew Esch have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Esch is an internist, meaning he is specifically trained in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. He has extensive experience managing conditions common in later life and is well-equipped to care for your needs.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Esch's practice strongly believes in a team approach to care. We welcome the involvement of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their participation is invaluable for ensuring clear communication and providing support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Andrew Esch?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Esch, please bring a list of all your current medications (including doses and over-the-counter supplements), a summary of your medical history, your insurance information, and any specific questions or concerns you'd like to discuss.
- How do I request a prescription refill?
- The easiest way to request a refill is through our patient portal or by contacting your pharmacy directly. Please allow 2-3 business days for requests to be processed. If you have any questions, please call our office.
- Does the practice accept Medicare?
- Yes, our practice proudly accepts Medicare. We are committed to providing high-quality care for our senior patients. We recommend contacting our office to confirm details about your specific plan.
- How do you coordinate care with specialists like cardiologists or oncologists?
- Dr. Esch coordinates care by acting as the central point of contact. He handles referrals to specialists, shares all relevant medical information, and synthesizes recommendations from specialists into a comprehensive treatment plan for the best possible care.
- Does your office help with preventive care like flu shots and other immunizations?
- Dr. Esch and our team are dedicated to preventive care for older adults. We provide essential adult immunizations, including annual flu shots, and help patients stay up-to-date on recommended screenings. We're here to support your health and well-being.
12470 Telecom Dr Ste 300
Temple Terrace FL 33637
Phone: (813) 871-8200
Dr. Andrew Esch, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1871520437
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Internal Medicine like Dr. Andrew Esch are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. 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.