Dr. Athena Valencia, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults at her clinic in Wesley Chapel, FL. She 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. She is particularly adept at supporting the needs of primarily older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Valencia is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (813) 999-0505 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Valencia has over 30 years of dedicated experience in Internal Medicine care, bringing a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from Mercy Hospital Medical Center in 1991, and completed her residency at Mercy Hospital in 1990, after graduating from University of the East/Ramon Memorial Medical Center in 1987. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons. She is committed to comprehensive care, recognizing that health is a journey, not a destination. At Wiregrass Direct Primary Care, we treat a wide age range of patients, from 1 to 101, we're here for examination, diagnosis, treatment and ongoing wellness for you and your families future. So if you are looking for a great primary care provider in the Wesley Chapel area make an appointment today. Our Board certified nurse practitioners are here to serve you. Serving Tampa, Zephyrhills, Lutz, Wesley Chapel, and surrounding areas. Dr. Athena Valencia provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Athena Valencia is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Athena Valencia partners with seniors to navigate the complexities of aging health, providing comprehensive internal medicine care. She prioritizes understanding each patient's unique needs and goals, meticulously coordinating complex care and managing chronic conditions to promote overall well-being and maintain independence. This compassionate approach ensures seniors thrive in their golden years, supported by a dedicated and personalized plan of care.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Athena Valencia can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
AvMed
Coventry Health Care
Golden Rule
MultiPlan
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Ambetter
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN (HPN)
- Blue Card PPO (PPO)
- Blue Choice HMO (HMO)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida
- Blue Preferred Patient Care PPO (PPO)
- Blue Select PPO (PPO)
- BlueOptions HMO (HMO)
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Cigna
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Medica Choice
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Preferred Patient Care
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- Superior Health Plan
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Athena Valencia 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:
- Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain, or stomach ache, can be a sign of various issues, from indigestion to more serious conditions, and prompt medical attention can ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Osteoarthritis: As we age, osteoarthritis, a common form of joint wear and tear, can develop, causing pain and stiffness, but with your doctor's guidance, you can manage symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Nausea: Managing nausea can help you maintain your appetite, energy levels, and overall quality of life, allowing you to remain independent.
- Dyslipidemia: Having dyslipidemia simply means your blood fat levels are off, increasing the chances of heart problems; however, through lifestyle changes and possibly medication, you can reduce these risks and maintain your independence.
- Constipation: If constipation is persistent or severe, consulting your doctor can lead to a personalized plan to relieve symptoms and prevent complications, enhancing your daily life.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is when stomach acid irritates the esophagus, leading to burning sensations and other issues, but with your doctor's help, through medication or dietary adjustments, you can often find relief and improve your quality of life.
- Anal or Rectal Pain: Anal or rectal pain isn't uncommon, and many conditions can cause it. Your doctor can help you understand the source of the pain and develop a treatment plan to make you feel better.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection affecting the bladder or kidneys that can lead to painful urination and discomfort. With the right medication prescribed by your doctor, you can effectively manage a UTI and continue enjoying your daily life.
- Foot Infection: Foot infections are common, especially in older adults, but prompt medical attention leads to faster healing, reducing pain and the risk of more serious issues that could limit your independence.
- Hypothyroidism: Having hypothyroidism means your thyroid gland isn't making enough crucial hormones, leading to fatigue and other issues, however, daily medication can help you regain your vitality and maintain your independence.
- 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.
- Nail Infection: Nail infections, sometimes noticeable by discoloration or thickening, are treatable with antifungal or antibiotic medications prescribed by your physician to restore healthy nails and improve your comfort.
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. Athena Valencia offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Advance Directive End of Life Planning: Advance directive end-of-life planning ensures your wishes regarding medical care are respected during your final stages of life.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): By measuring oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood, an arterial blood gas test helps your doctor monitor the effectiveness of your treatment for lung or heart problems.
- 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.
- Occupational Therapy: This therapy focuses on improving a senior's ability to perform everyday activities, helping them maintain a higher quality of life.
- Geriatric Nursing Home Care: Geriatric nursing home care plays a critical role in managing chronic illnesses and preventing complications for seniors, allowing for a more comfortable and dignified aging process.
- Endometrial Ablation: Endometrial ablation is a procedure that helps manage heavy menstrual bleeding in women by reducing the lining of the uterus, improving their quality of life.
- Lab Service: Through lab services, your doctor can assess your response to medication, adjust treatment as needed, and keep you feeling your best.
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. Athena Valencia 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:
- A senior felt a significant reduction in abdominal pain after a personalized treatment plan, allowing them to enjoy their favorite evening walks with renewed energy and confidence.
- With improved medication and physical therapy, a senior was able to resume her beloved daily walks in the park, a source of joy and exercise. Her family felt immense relief knowing she could maintain her active lifestyle.
- With guidance on managing nausea, a senior couple rediscovered their love for dining out at local restaurants, enjoying meals together without discomfort.
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)
- National Board of Physicians and Surgeons (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Athena Valencia:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Valencia and her team are internists, a type of primary care doctor who specializes in adult health. They are experts in the unique health needs of older adults, especially managing chronic conditions and coordinating care. This expertise makes them well-suited to meet the diverse medical needs of older adults.
- Does Dr. Athena Valencia have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Valencia is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is well-versed in conditions common in later life, providing comprehensive care for seniors.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Valencia and our practice strongly 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 in ensuring clear communication and providing comprehensive support.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Athena Valencia?
- To prepare for your first appointment with Dr. Valencia, 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 prescription refill is through our patient portal or by calling 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. Valencia coordinates care by acting as the central point of contact. She handles referrals to specialists, ensures all medical information is shared, and synthesizes recommendations into a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs.
- What is your approach to medication management, especially for patients taking many prescriptions (polypharmacy)?
- Dr. Valencia'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.
2236 Green Hedges Way
Wesley Chapel FL 33544
Phone: (813) 999-0505
Dr. Athena Valencia, 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): 1063631240
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. Athena Valencia 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.