Dr. Charlene Deluca, MD is an Internal Medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for older adults. She is a trusted partner in your health journey, practicing at her clinic in Naples, FL, and registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, adhering to 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 primarily serves older adults (65 and older), but also includes younger adults with complex medical needs. Dr. Deluca is currently welcoming new patients; please call (239) 331-3222 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Charlene Deluca, MD is an internist in Naples, FL, affiliated with Physicians Regional Medical Center Pine Ridge. She is accepting new patients. Her commitment to comprehensive care stems from rigorous medical training, including an internship at Metrowest Hospital (1993), a residency in Internal Medicine at Miriam Hospital Brown University (1995), and fellowship training in a specialized area at Ri Hospital Brown University (1996). Dr. Deluca's approach to care is collaborative and evidence-based, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. She is committed to providing the best possible care, ensuring that your needs and preferences are central to her approach. Dr. Charlene Deluca provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Charlene Deluca is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Charlene Deluca is a dedicated partner in your senior health journey, providing comprehensive internal medicine care focused on your well-being and independence. She meticulously coordinates complex care, manages chronic conditions, and prioritizes understanding your personal goals and preferences, ensuring a compassionate and personalized approach to aging healthfully.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Charlene Deluca can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Aetna HMO (HMO)
- Choice Plus POS II (POS II)
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO (EPO)
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS (POS)
- Open Choice PPO (PPO)
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Charlene Deluca 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:
- Limb Pain: Don't let limb pain hold you back – many effective treatment options, such as pain medication, exercises, or assistive devices, can help you manage the discomfort and enhance your quality of life.
- Hypothyroidism: If you have hypothyroidism, it means your thyroid gland isn't producing enough hormones, which can impact your energy levels and well-being, but simple daily medication can bring significant improvements, helping you live more comfortably.
- Sleep Apnea: If you or a loved one snores loudly and often feel tired despite sleeping enough, it might be sleep apnea, a condition easily diagnosed and treated to restore restful nights and improve energy levels.
- Anemia: Anemia is a common condition, especially in older adults, characterized by low red blood cell count; thankfully, various treatments are available to help restore energy levels and enhance overall well-being.
- Hyperlipidemia: High cholesterol, also known as hyperlipidemia, can put you at risk for heart disease, but it's manageable! By making healthy lifestyle changes and/or taking medication as prescribed, you can reduce your risk and continue enjoying your favorite activities.
- Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, can make everyday activities feel harder, but understanding its cause and working with your doctor can often ease your breathing and improve your comfort.
- Pneumonia: If you have pneumonia, it means your lungs are inflamed due to an infection, potentially impacting your breathing; however, medical care, including medication and supportive therapies, helps manage symptoms and get you back on your feet.
- 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.
- Fever: A fever, or elevated body temperature, is often a sign that your body is fighting off an infection, and managing it with rest and fluids can help you feel better faster.
- Abnormal Thyroid: If your thyroid is abnormal, it might be producing too much or too little of important hormones; treatment, often medication, helps restore balance, reducing symptoms and improving your energy levels and quality of life.
- Acute Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is a common lung infection causing a cough, often with mucus, that usually gets better within a few weeks with rest and over-the-counter remedies, helping you breathe easier and feel more comfortable.
- Malaise and Fatigue: Feeling constantly tired and unwell is common as we age, but it's important to understand that underlying medical conditions or medication side effects can be the cause, and these can often be managed to improve your energy levels and overall well-being.
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. Charlene Deluca offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This test provides valuable information about your body's oxygenation and helps your doctor make informed decisions about your medication and treatment.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): An EKG is a vital tool in monitoring the effectiveness of your heart medication and adjusting your treatment plan as needed, optimizing your heart health and overall quality of life.
- Immunization Administration: Through timely immunizations, we can help prevent hospitalizations and complications related to infectious diseases, keeping seniors healthier and more active.
- Musculoskeletal Function Test: This test assesses your joints, muscles, and bones to identify the cause of pain or stiffness and guide your treatment.
- Geriatric Assessment: This in-depth checkup helps doctors create a personalized care plan for you by identifying and managing multiple health concerns common in older adults.
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: CPR is a procedure aimed at managing a sudden cardiac arrest, a life-threatening event sometimes encountered in older adults.
- Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disorders: Addressing sleep disorders can significantly improve seniors' daytime functioning, reducing fatigue, improving mood, and enhancing their ability to participate in daily activities.
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. Charlene Deluca 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 the guidance of a knowledgeable internal medicine professional, a senior couple experienced significant pain reduction in their limbs, allowing them to safely enjoy evening strolls in their neighborhood park again.
- With medication adjustments, a senior felt a significant boost in energy levels, allowing them to enjoy morning walks with their grandchildren again.
- With the help of a personalized treatment plan, a senior couple found relief from frequent nighttime awakenings and the exhaustion that had been affecting their daily lives, allowing them to enjoy their evening walks again.
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)
Here are answers to some common questions about Internal Medicine care with Dr. Charlene Deluca:
- What is an internist, and how are they different from a family doctor?
- Dr. Deluca and her team at our practice are internists, which means they are primary care doctors who specialize in treating adults. They have extensive experience managing the complex health issues that often arise with aging, including chronic conditions. They are skilled at coordinating care with other specialists to ensure comprehensive and personalized treatment plans.
- Does Dr. Charlene Deluca have experience treating older adults or seniors?
- Yes, Dr. Deluca is an internist, specializing in adult medicine, and has extensive experience treating the unique health needs of older adults. She is knowledgeable about the conditions and concerns common in later life.
- Are family members or caregivers able to participate in appointments and care planning?
- Dr. Deluca and our practice believe 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 support throughout the care process.
- What should I bring to my first appointment with Dr. Charlene Deluca?
- To prepare for your appointment with Dr. Deluca, 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?
- 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.
- What is your philosophy on maintaining quality of life for patients with serious illnesses?
- Our philosophy is centered on the individual patient. We aim to manage symptoms effectively, align treatment plans with personal values and goals, and prioritize comfort and dignity throughout care.
- What kind of diagnostic tests can be done in your office?
- Dr. Deluca's office can perform common diagnostic tests like electrocardiograms (EKGs), blood draws, and urine tests. These help quickly assess your health and manage conditions without needing a referral to a specialist right away.
130 Tamiami Trl N Ste 110
Naples FL 34102
Phone: (239) 331-3222
Dr. Charlene Deluca, 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): 1093748279
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. Charlene Deluca 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.