Dr. Ankem Ravindra, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at his practice, Ankem Ravindra MD, in Lake City, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). 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 primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. He is currently welcoming new patients, so please call (386) 752-3400 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Ankem Ravindra, MD is an internist in Lake City, FL with over 50 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Sri Venkatesvara MC, Tirupati in 1972 and is affiliated with HCA Florida Lake City Hospital and Doctors' Memorial Hospital. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics. With this extensive experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. Dr. Ankem Ravindra is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Ankem Ravindra is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ravindra is a compassionate and dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. He meticulously coordinates complex care, expertly manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes your overall well-being and independence as you age. His approach emphasizes understanding your personal goals and creating a personalized plan to help you thrive.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ankem Ravindra can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ambetter
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Seamless HMO (HMO)
- Superior Health Plan
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ankem Ravindra 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:
- Peripheral Autonomic Neuropathy: This condition involves damage to nerves responsible for automatic functions in your body, such as your heartbeat and digestion, often causing symptoms such as dizziness or constipation; through careful management and the right treatment strategies, you can better manage these symptoms and improve your comfort and independence.
- Cellulitis: Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues, usually treated effectively with antibiotics to reduce pain, swelling, and the risk of spreading the infection, allowing you to maintain your independence.
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid gland, meaning it doesn't produce enough hormones to keep your body functioning at its best, but with medication, you can feel more energetic and manage your symptoms effectively.
- Hypotension (Excluding Maternal): Managing hypotension involves understanding your triggers and adjusting medications or lifestyle to keep your blood pressure stable and prevent complications.
- Hypertensive Heart with Failure: High blood pressure has put extra strain on your heart, leading to heart failure, a condition where your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs. Fortunately, treatment plans focusing on managing blood pressure and supporting your heart can significantly improve your quality of life.
- Strep Throat: A strep throat infection, caused by bacteria, leads to a painful throat and sometimes fever, but prompt antibiotic treatment can quickly relieve discomfort and help you feel better.
- Hypogonadism: Experiencing decreased energy, bone loss, or changes in mood? These could be symptoms of hypogonadism, a condition of low sex hormones. Working with your doctor to manage it can significantly improve your quality of life and independence.
- Venous Embolism and Thrombosis: VTE is a condition where blood clots form in the veins, sometimes causing leg pain and swelling, but with prompt treatment like blood thinners, it can prevent serious health risks and help you remain active.
- Proteinuria: Having protein in your urine is a signal that we need to investigate further to make sure your kidneys are working properly, and treatment can help prevent further complications.
- Bronchiectasis: Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition characterized by widened and damaged airways that make it difficult to clear mucus, leading to infections; treatments such as antibiotics, chest physiotherapy, and medications can significantly reduce symptoms and help you live a full life.
- Tobacco Use Disorder: For older adults, quitting tobacco is an important step toward better health and maintaining independence. Medical professionals offer many strategies to address tobacco use disorder and ensure a successful journey to a smoke-free life.
- Headache: Persistent headaches can affect your sleep, mood, and overall well-being, but with proper diagnosis and management, you can find relief and improve your quality of life.
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. Ankem Ravindra offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): An arterial blood gas test helps your doctor understand how well your lungs are working and how your body is managing oxygen and carbon dioxide.
- Cardiac Catheterization (incl. Coronary Angiography): This procedure uses a thin tube inserted into a blood vessel to visualize your heart's blood vessels, aiding in managing heart disease and preventing future heart attacks or strokes.
- Cardiac Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: This imaging test helps your doctor understand the severity of any heart condition you may have, enabling them to create a personalized care plan that addresses your specific needs and reduces your risks.
- Cardiac Ultrasound: Cardiac ultrasound is a non-invasive way to detect heart problems early, enabling your healthcare team to create a personalized plan for preventing future complications.
- Chest CT (incl. Heart and Lungs): To create a comprehensive care plan, your doctor may order a chest CT scan to assess the overall health of your heart and lungs, helping to detect any underlying issues early.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may use an EKG to detect irregularities in your heartbeat, such as an abnormal rhythm or signs of a heart attack, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment.
- Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a crucial preventive care step to protect seniors from vaccine-preventable diseases, helping them maintain their health and independence.
- Thoracentesis: Thoracentesis is a minimally invasive procedure that helps relieve pressure and discomfort caused by fluid buildup in the lungs, improving your overall quality of life.
- Tilt_Testing: This test assists in diagnosing conditions like neurocardiogenic syncope, a cause of fainting, allowing for better management of your symptoms.
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. Ankem Ravindra 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 careful management of their peripheral autonomic neuropathy, a senior was able to enjoy a relaxing evening stroll with family, a previously challenging activity. The improved digestive function and reduced dizziness brought newfound freedom and peace of mind to their daily life.
- With the infection effectively managed through antibiotics, the patient was able to resume their daily walks in the park, a cherished activity that brought them much joy. The swelling and pain subsided, and the family felt a sense of relief and security knowing their loved one was recovering well at home.
- With medication and expert guidance, a senior felt a noticeable boost in energy, allowing them to rejoin their book club and reconnect with friends.
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 (Internal Medicine)
- American Board of Pediatrics (Pediatrics)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Ankem Ravindra:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Ravindra and our practice's internists are primary care doctors who specialize exclusively in treating adults. They are experts in the complex health issues that can arise with age, including managing chronic diseases and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Ankem Ravindra have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Ankem Ravindra's practice specializes in adult medicine, including the unique health needs of older adults. Our internists are highly experienced in managing conditions common in later life, such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. You can be confident in their expertise.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Ravindra and our team believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their input is invaluable for clear communication and support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Ankem Ravindra?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Ravindra, 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.
- 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.
- What kind of diagnostic tests can be done in your office?
- In our office, we can perform common tests like EKGs, blood draws, and urine tests. These help us quickly assess your health and manage conditions without needing a referral to another specialist right away.
- What is your approach to medication management, especially for patients taking many prescriptions (polypharmacy)?
- Dr. Ravindra's practice prioritizes medication management, especially for patients on multiple medications. We regularly review prescriptions to identify and address potential drug interactions, eliminate unnecessary medications, and ensure the overall plan is safe and effective for each patient.
Ankem Ravindra MD
1211 SW Bascom Norris Dr
Lake City FL 32025
Phone: (386) 752-3400
Dr. Ankem Ravindra, 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): 1427094242
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. Ankem Ravindra 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.