Dr. Bshara Barakat, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults. He practices at his clinic in Jacksonville, FL, and is committed to being a trusted partner in your health journey. As your internist, he 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 is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. He is currently welcoming new patients; please call (904) 389-2707 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Bshara Barakat, MD is an internist in Jacksonville, FL, with over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from American University Of Beirut, Faculty Of Medicine in 1992, followed by an internship at Duke University Hospital in 1993. He then completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Duke University Hospital in 1995. Dr. Barakat is affiliated with Ascension St Vincent's Riverside and Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville and is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. He is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. Dr. Bshara Barakat offers consultations in Arabic.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Bshara Barakat is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Barakat acts as a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your overall well-being and independence. He meticulously coordinates complex care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes understanding your individual needs and goals. His compassionate approach ensures a smooth and supportive experience, empowering you to thrive as you age.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Bshara Barakat can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- AvMed
- 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)
- BlueOptions HMO (HMO)
- Choice Large Group POS (POS)
- Choice Plus POS (POS)
- Curative
- Curative EPO (EPO)
- Curative PPO (PPO)
- Curative PPO Plus (PPO Plus)
- Empower - Small Employer Groups
- Empower POS (POS)
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO (PPO)
- Florida Blue
- Inc. d/b/a Florida Blue
- Medica Choice
- Navigate HMO (HMO)
- Navigate POS (POS)
- Nexus Open Access
- Options PPO (PPO)
- Preferred Patient Care
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Bshara Barakat 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:
- Fever: Managing a fever involves comfort measures like plenty of fluids and rest, along with medications prescribed by your doctor, to help you feel better and remain comfortable at home.
- Diarrhea: Diarrhea is frequent, loose bowel movements that can cause discomfort and dehydration, but with proper management, you can feel better and maintain your daily activities.
- Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens your bones, making them more prone to fractures, but with proper management and medication, you can significantly reduce your risk of falls and maintain your independence.
- Headache: Headaches can be a symptom of underlying health issues, so it's important to talk to your doctor to rule out any serious causes and develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Emphysema: Emphysema makes it difficult to exhale fully, trapping air in your lungs, resulting in chronic shortness of breath, yet management strategies and lifestyle adjustments can greatly improve quality of life.
- Heart Disease: Heart disease encompasses various conditions affecting the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently, and managing it often involves lifestyle changes, medications, and regular check-ups to maintain your heart health and energy levels.
- Chronic Neck Pain: Chronic neck pain can impact sleep, mood, and daily functioning, but many treatments, such as gentle stretches, medication, and other therapies, can help reduce pain and restore your ability to move comfortably.
- All Headaches (incl. Migraine): Many older adults experience headaches, and effective management, such as medication or lifestyle changes, can dramatically lessen their impact on your quality of life.
- Dysphagia: Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing, a common problem that can make eating and drinking challenging, but with the right care and strategies, you can still enjoy your meals and maintain your independence.
- Chronic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Chronic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a persistent blood clot in a deep vein, often in the leg, that requires ongoing medical management to prevent serious complications and maintain your mobility.
- Dizziness: Dizziness, a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness, is a common concern among older adults that can be managed effectively with a doctor's help to improve your balance and safety.
- Leg and Foot Ulcers: Developing leg or foot ulcers can be concerning, but they are treatable, and timely medical attention can help prevent complications, reduce pain, and improve your ability to walk and participate in activities you enjoy.
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. Bshara Barakat 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.
- Care Coordination for Complex Conditions and Procedures: This service helps diagnose and manage the interaction of multiple chronic conditions, reducing the risk of adverse events and improving overall wellness.
- Chronic Care Management: This service provides ongoing support for seniors dealing with long-term illnesses, helping them track their health, manage medications, and prevent complications.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a simple test that uses small sensors placed on your chest to check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity, helping your doctor assess your heart health and manage any potential problems.
- Pap Smear: This quick test can help manage your risk of cervical cancer by detecting abnormal cells early, enabling prompt intervention.
- Smoking Cessation Counseling: Smoking cessation counseling is a crucial step in diagnosing and addressing smoking-related illnesses and preventing future health complications in seniors.
- Joint Fluid Test: By examining the fluid from your joint, a joint fluid test helps your doctor determine the best course of action to manage your joint pain and improve your comfort.
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. Bshara Barakat 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:
- Feeling the fever's discomfort ease, a senior was grateful to return to reading her favorite books, a cherished pastime, with renewed energy and comfort. The family felt a sense of relief and security knowing the fever was effectively managed at home.
- A senior woman, experiencing frequent diarrhea, found significant relief with guidance from a medical professional. She regained her confidence in managing her daily routine and enjoyed meals with her family again.
- With guidance on medication and lifestyle changes, a senior felt significantly more secure in their home, reducing the risk of falls and regaining their independence to enjoy daily walks with their beloved dog.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Bshara Barakat:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Internists, like Dr. Barakat, are primary care doctors who specialize in adult health. They are experts in the many health issues that can arise with aging, including managing chronic diseases and coordinating care with other specialists.
- Does Dr. Bshara Barakat have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Dr. Barakat's practice specializes in adult medicine, and he has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. He is knowledgeable about the conditions that commonly affect seniors and is well-equipped to provide comprehensive care.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Barakat and our practice believe in a team approach to care. We welcome the participation of family members and caregivers, with the patient's permission, as their involvement is invaluable for clear communication and supporting the best possible plan.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Bshara Barakat?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Barakat, 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 does Dr. Bshara Barakat approach managing type 2 diabetes?
- Dr. Barakat's approach to managing type 2 diabetes is comprehensive, encompassing medication management, regular blood sugar monitoring, and crucial lifestyle counseling. This includes personalized dietary recommendations, exercise plans, and detailed foot care instructions to empower patients in effectively controlling their condition.
- Does your office help with preventive care like flu shots and other immunizations?
- Dr. Barakat and our team are enthusiastic about preventive care. We provide essential adult immunizations, including annual flu shots, and help patients stay up-to-date on recommended screenings.
2119 Oak St
Jacksonville FL 32204
Phone: (904) 389-2707
Dr. Bshara Barakat, 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): 1518921360
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. Bshara Barakat 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.