Dr. Annette Hils, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Clearwater, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), she 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. She primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Hils is currently welcoming new patients; please call (727) 443-1122 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Annette Hils, MD is an internist in Clearwater, FL with over 15 years of experience in the medical field. A graduate of Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine in 2006, she completed an internship at Lahey Clinic Burlington and a residency in Internal Medicine at University of Mass. Med School-Worcester City Hospital, both of which provided her with invaluable experience. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Hils is affiliated with Morton Plant Hospital and St. Joseph's Hospital and, with her commitment to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, strives to create a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She offers consultations in Spanish.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, Dr. Hils brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. Her journey began with her medical degree from Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine in 2006, followed by a focused internship and residency in Internal Medicine, culminating in her expertise in the comprehensive medical care of primarily older adults (65 and older), but also including younger adults with complex medical needs. This experience, combined with her dedication to patient-centered care, makes her an exceptional partner in navigating the complexities of senior health.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Annette Hils is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Hils is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care that prioritizes your overall well-being. She expertly manages chronic conditions, coordinates complex care needs, and focuses on preserving your independence and quality of life as you age. Her compassionate approach emphasizes understanding your individual goals and creating personalized plans to help you thrive.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Annette Hils can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- APCN Choice POS II (POS II)
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- AvMed
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- BlueCard PPO (PPO)
- BlueCare HMO (HMO)
- BlueOptions
- CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Choice
- Choice Large Group POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Cigna HMO (HMO)
- Cigna PPO (PPO)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- FL Medical Providers
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate Plus POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Seamless HMO (HMO)
- Small Group Elect HMO (HMO)
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Annette Hils 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:
- ADHD and-or ADD: While often diagnosed in childhood, ADHD and ADD can persist into older age, impacting memory, organization, and daily routines; however, effective management strategies, including medication and lifestyle changes, can help seniors live more fulfilling lives.
- Hypercalcemia: Hypercalcemia, a condition of elevated blood calcium, might cause you to feel unwell, but effective treatment strategies exist to help regulate calcium levels, alleviate symptoms, and enhance your overall quality of life.
- Reflux Esophagitis: If you experience frequent heartburn or chest pain, talking to your doctor about reflux esophagitis is important for effective treatment and a better quality of life.
- Yeast Infections: Yeast infections, though sometimes embarrassing, are common and manageable health concerns, particularly for older adults. Prompt medical attention ensures effective treatment and a return to your normal activities.
- Obesity: While obesity means having more body fat than is healthy, leading to various health concerns, it is manageable through a personalized approach with your doctor, improving your health and quality of life.
- Gastritis: If you're struggling with stomach pain, nausea, or indigestion, it could be gastritis; thankfully, treatment plans involving medication and lifestyle modifications help reduce these symptoms and support your overall well-being.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure (hypertension) is a silent condition, often without symptoms, but it's crucial to manage it as it can damage your organs. With your doctor's help, through medication and healthy habits, you can protect your health and well-being.
- Viral Infection: A viral infection can be uncomfortable, but with appropriate rest, hydration, and possibly medication to manage symptoms, you can comfortably navigate your recovery and maintain your quality of life.
- Strep Throat: Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils, often causing a sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing, but treatable with antibiotics to ease symptoms and prevent complications.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria): If you see blood in your urine, don't worry—your doctor can determine the cause through tests and recommend the right approach to help you feel better and stay independent.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe, but with the right treatment and care, you can manage your symptoms and stay active.
- Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Familial hypercholesterolemia is an inherited condition leading to high cholesterol, but don't worry—following your doctor's recommendations on medication and healthy living can help keep your heart strong and your quality of life high.
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. Annette Hils offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): To create a personalized care plan, your doctor may order an arterial blood gas test to accurately assess your respiratory and overall health.
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: For seniors with intricate medical needs, care coordination acts as a central hub, simplifying communication and ensuring everyone involved is on the same page.
- Chronic Care Management: By focusing on prevention and early intervention, Chronic Care Management helps seniors with chronic conditions avoid hospitalizations and maintain their independence.
- Diabetes Counseling: Diabetes counseling helps you understand your diabetes diagnosis and create a personalized plan to manage your blood sugar levels.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): As part of your routine checkup, an EKG can help identify early signs of heart disease, allowing for proactive management of your condition and improve your overall well-being.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: As part of your regular checkups, a fecal occult blood test helps your doctor assess your risk of colorectal cancer and develop a personalized prevention plan.
- Immunization Administration: Immunization administration is a key component of a comprehensive care plan, ensuring seniors receive protection against potentially debilitating infections.
- Obesity Counseling: Obesity counseling helps seniors understand their weight and develop a personalized plan to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, improving overall 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 Internal Medicine in Florida.
Dr. Annette Hils 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 medication and lifestyle adjustments, a senior felt significantly less overwhelmed by daily tasks, regaining a sense of control and confidence in managing their home environment.
- With hypercalcemia effectively managed, a senior couple regained their zest for daily walks in the park, a cherished activity they'd been unable to enjoy for months. Their improved energy and reduced symptoms brought a renewed sense of security and joy to their home life.
- After undergoing a personalized treatment plan for reflux esophagitis, a senior couple enjoyed evenings free from the discomfort of heartburn, allowing them to relax and enjoy meals with their family without interruption.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. She 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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Annette Hils:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Hils and her team are internists, a type of primary care doctor who specializes in adult health. They are experts in the many health issues that can arise as we age, including managing chronic conditions and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Annette Hils have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Hils is an internist, meaning she specializes in adult medicine and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions frequently affecting seniors and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Hils and our team believe in a collaborative approach, and we welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission. Their involvement is invaluable in ensuring clear communication and providing comprehensive support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Annette Hils?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Hils, 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 address.
- 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?
- Our practice accepts Medicare. To ensure we are in-network with your particular plan, please call the number on your insurance card or contact our billing office for assistance.
- How do you manage chronic pain, such as arthritis?
- Dr. Hils's approach to chronic pain, like arthritis, is multifaceted. It includes appropriate medications, referrals to physical therapy, and discussions about lifestyle adjustments to help manage discomfort and maintain activity levels.
- Does your office help with preventive care like flu shots and other immunizations?
- Dr. Hils 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 happy to discuss your needs and create a personalized plan.
1007 Jeffords St Ste 101
Clearwater FL 33756
Phone: (727) 443-1122
Dr. Annette Hils, 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): 1992905962
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. Annette Hils 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.