Dr. Charles Prentice, MD is a Nephrology specialist practicing at Charles A Prentice MD PA in Inverness, FL. He is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive nephrological care for older adults (65+) and seniors. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458, Dr. Prentice understands the unique healthcare needs of this population. He's committed to a collaborative approach, working closely with your primary care physician and other specialists to ensure the best possible care, including dialysis and post-transplant management. He is currently welcoming new patients and can be reached at (561) 765-6971 to schedule an appointment.
General Nephrologists provide specialized expertise in managing complex kidney conditions like CKD, hypertension, and electrolyte imbalances common in seniors. Dr. Prentice, an experienced physician with extensive training in the care of older adults, has earned his medical degree from Universidad Autonoma De Guadalajara and completed an internship at Catholic Medical Center Of Queens & Brooklyn. Following medical school, he undertook residency training in Nephrology at Catholic Medical Center Of Queens & Brooklyn, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of Older adults (65+) and seniors. Further specializing, he pursued fellowship training in Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, deepening his expertise in a specific area of patient health. Dr. Prentice is affiliated with HCA Florida Citrus Hospital and offers consultations in Spanish. His commitment to evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care ensures a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-doctor partnership. Dr. Charles Prentice is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Prentice is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive nephrological care with a compassionate and personalized approach. He expertly manages complex kidney conditions, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), hypertension, and electrolyte imbalances, working collaboratively with primary care physicians and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes. Dr. Prentice's expertise extends to dialysis and post-transplant care, always prioritizing the individual needs and goals of each patient.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Charles Prentice can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Aetna
Cigna
Also Accepts These Carriers
- APCN Choice POS II
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana
- BlueCard Traditional
- BlueCare
- BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
- BlueSelect
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Choice
- Choice Plus
- HealthyBlue Advantage
- MAPFRE Life Insurance Company of Puerto Rico
- Managed Choice (Open Access)
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice
- Options
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- UnitedHealthCare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Charles Prentice 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:
- Chronic Kidney Disease Stage II: With Chronic Kidney Disease Stage II, your kidneys are slightly less efficient than they used to be, but this doesn't mean you're limited. By closely following your doctor's recommendations, including diet and medication, we can effectively manage the condition and help you maintain your independence and enjoy life to the fullest.
- Secondary Renovascular Hypertension: If narrowed arteries restrict blood flow to your kidneys, it causes a type of high blood pressure called secondary renovascular hypertension. Treatment focuses on restoring blood flow, often with medication or interventions, to keep your blood pressure under control and improve your quality of life.
- Renal Hyperparathyroidism: Because your kidneys are less efficient, they might not remove enough phosphorus, which then leads to the release of too much parathyroid hormone causing renal hyperparathyroidism. Dietary changes and medication can help maintain strong bones and overall wellness.
- Acute Kidney Failure: Sometimes, your kidneys might experience a sudden, temporary drop in function, known as acute kidney failure, requiring medical attention for recovery and restoration of kidney health.
- Hyperparathyroidism: Managing hyperparathyroidism often involves lifestyle changes and medication to control the excess hormone, helping to maintain bone health and prevent kidney damage.
- Chronic Kidney Disease Stage III: With Stage III Chronic Kidney Disease, your kidneys are working less efficiently, but by following your doctor's recommendations including diet and medication you can significantly slow disease progression, keeping you comfortable and enjoying your life.
- Acute Kidney Infection: If you experience sudden, intense pain in your lower back or side, accompanied by fever or chills, it could signal an acute kidney infection, which requires immediate medical attention and antibiotic therapy to reduce symptoms and preserve kidney function.
- Hypertension: If you have hypertension, working closely with your doctor to find the right treatment plan which may include medication and lifestyle adjustments is key to protecting your kidneys and overall health, promoting a better quality of life.
- Renal Osteodystrophy: Renal osteodystrophy is a bone disease that can develop when your kidneys aren't working properly, affecting bone strength and increasing the risk of fractures, but with careful monitoring and treatment, you can maintain strong bones and stay active.
- Nephritis and Nephropathy: Kidney inflammation (nephritis) or damage (nephropathy) can be managed through careful monitoring, medication, and lifestyle changes to help protect your kidneys and keep you feeling your best.
- Hypertensive Heart and Chronic Kidney Disease: Hypertensive heart disease and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are linked conditions where high blood pressure damages both the heart and kidneys, but careful management with medication and lifestyle changes can help you maintain your independence and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Tubulointerstitial Nephritis: Tubulointerstitial nephritis is a type of kidney inflammation affecting the tiny tubes and surrounding tissue; treatment focuses on identifying and addressing the cause to protect kidney function, enabling you to continue enjoying your favorite activities and maintain your independence.
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. Charles Prentice offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Hemodialysis: For seniors with advanced kidney disease, hemodialysis offers a vital treatment option, improving your overall health and allowing you to manage your condition more effectively.
- Kidney Transplant Evaluation: Through a comprehensive assessment, the kidney transplant evaluation helps create a detailed care plan tailored to your specific needs, making the transition to a transplant smoother.
- Living Kidney Donor Evaluation: A living kidney donor evaluation thoroughly assesses a potential donor's health to ensure they're a safe and suitable match for kidney transplantation, a life-saving option for many seniors.
- Peritoneal Dialysis: For seniors with kidney problems, peritoneal dialysis offers a home-based treatment option to help control fluid levels and remove waste products.
- Renal Scan: If you're experiencing kidney-related symptoms, a renal scan can help your doctor determine the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
- Hemofiltration: Hemofiltration is a specialized dialysis technique that helps remove waste products and excess fluid from your blood, supporting your kidney function and overall well-being.
- Lithotripsy: As part of a comprehensive kidney health plan, lithotripsy can help seniors avoid the complications associated with untreated kidney stones.
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 Nephrology in Florida.
Dr. Charles Prentice 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:
- Following a tailored treatment plan, a senior was able to resume their weekly bridge club gatherings, a cherished social activity, and continue to enjoy a fulfilling life.
- With blood pressure more stable and kidney function improved, a senior couple could finally enjoy their morning walks without breathlessness, a cherished activity restored.
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 Nephrological care with Dr. Charles Prentice:
- What is a Nephrologist?
- A nephrologist is a doctor specializing in kidney health and diseases. They are experts in managing conditions like chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes complications. Their role is vital in preserving kidney function and overall health for seniors.
- What are the most common causes of kidney disease in older adults?
- The two leading causes of kidney disease in older adults are high blood pressure and diabetes. Over time, these conditions can damage the small blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste. Dr. Prentice specializes in managing these conditions to protect the kidneys.
- Can kidney disease be cured or reversed?
- While damage from chronic kidney disease is usually not reversible, its progression can often be slowed significantly. Dr. Prentice's goal is to preserve the kidney function you have for as long as possible and manage any symptoms to maintain a good quality of life. Acute kidney injury, a sudden decline, can sometimes be reversed.
- What is a kidney biopsy?
- A kidney biopsy is a procedure where a very small piece of kidney tissue is removed with a needle for examination under a microscope. It's the best way to get a precise diagnosis for some kidney problems. It's performed with local anesthetic to numb the area and sedation for comfort.
- What is dialysis and when is it needed?
- Dialysis is a treatment that does the job of your kidneys when they can no longer function on their own, filtering waste products and excess fluid from your blood. It's typically needed in the last stage of kidney failure, and Dr. Prentice carefully monitors kidney function to determine if and when dialysis is the right next step.
- What is involved in the care after a kidney transplant?
- Post-transplant care is a lifelong partnership with our team. It involves taking daily anti-rejection medications, regular blood tests, and frequent check-ups with Dr. Prentice. This diligent follow-up is key to ensuring the long-term health and success of your new kidney.
- What are electrolyte disorders?
- Electrolyte disorders occur when there's too much or too little of essential minerals like sodium and potassium in your blood, affecting nerve and muscle function. Since the kidneys play a key role in regulating these minerals, Dr. Prentice is an expert at diagnosing and correcting any imbalances.
- What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition where the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood as well as they should, a condition that develops over many years. In the early stages, people may not feel sick. Dr. Prentice's goal is to slow the progression of the disease through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes.
Charles A Prentice MD PA
214 S Pine Ave
Inverness FL 34452
Phone: (561) 765-6971
Dr. Charles Prentice, 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): 1134124951
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. Nephrology like Dr. Charles Prentice 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.